A police officer in southeastern Indiana was killed in a vehicle pursuit Wednesday night, according to ABC News.

Sergeant Benton Bertram of the Charlestown Police Department was in pursuit of a driver suspected of a traffic violation when he reportedly lost control of his patrol vehicle, leaving the roadway and colliding with a tree.

Other officers in the pursuit immediately stopped and rendered aid but Sergeant Bertram succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Mayor Rob Hall said in a statement, "We have a small close knit department and it is like losing one of our family. It was comforting to be with the members of our department as well as State and County officers the last few hours consoling one another. I got a greater sense of the meaning of the 'Brotherhood' these men and women feel for each other."

Hall continued, "We owe them our respect and gratitude, because everyday they put their safety (tonight a life) on the line to help keep us safe. God Bless those who serve."

Sergeant Bertram's K-9 partner survived the crash and was treated at a local veterinary hospital.

The 35-year-old officer had served nine years with the department. He is survived by his parents.