A New York State Trooper was shot in the leg on Southern State Parkway while attempting to assist a driver in West Hempstead, Nassau County.

West Hempstead, Nassau County (WABC) – Cop Shot is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspect who shot and killed a New York State Trooper on South State Parkway in West Hempstead on Long Island.

Trooper Thomas Massiah, 27, was shot and killed in the westbound lanes of the parkway near Exit 17 around 11:45 p.m. Wednesday.

During a press conference, New York State Police officials said Trooper Massiah, a five-year veteran of the force, approached the vehicle after seeing it parked along the left median of the parkway.

Deciding the driver needed help, he wrote down the vehicle’s license plate number, then exited the patrol car and approached the vehicle.

State police say the driver of a late-model black Dodge Charger fired multiple shots through a rolled down window.

The soldier said he heard several pops and realized he had been hit in the leg. He immediately took cover behind his patrol car as the driver fled, officials said.

“He was able to retrieve his first aid kit and treat his wounds,” New York State Police Superintendent Stephen James said.

Another trooper who responded to the scene of the shooting helped transport Massiah to Nassau University Medical Center.

He underwent surgery on his injured leg and is expected to make a full recovery.

Soldier Massiah’s neighbor Diane Sherin spoke with Eyewitness News and said this is not the first time he has been injured.

“This is his second injury,” Sherin said. “He was injured earlier. He was hit by a car while he was also working.”

Sherin says he was in upstate New York at the time of the crash.

“He’s a great kid, a great guy, he’s just always been so kind,” she said. “He helps us clear the snow, he’s so kind and caring. “We are all praying for him and hoping he comes back to get well again with us.”

The suspect fled west in a Charger. He had a temporary New Jersey license plate number 997636T. It is further described that the car has special dual exhaust tips in a matte gray color.

“The desire of the Massiah soldier was to help someone who seemed to be in need of help, but unfortunately the good intentions of the Massiah soldier were met with unexpected shots aimed at him by a coward who, without any provocation, a good shot or a good reason, began to shoot at him,” said Major Steve Eustace of the New York State Police.

There is no body camera footage because the officer did not turn on the full light bar for his patrol car. It eventually activated as he pulled out his weapon.

He was unable to fire back shots at the suspects as they fled the scene immediately after the shooting.

The NYPD and other law enforcement agencies were alerted that the vehicle may have fled to New York City, but it was not immediately located.

Law enforcement has noted an increase in criminal activity involving vehicles with temporary or paper license plates.

The New York State PBA released a statement saying:

“We are disgusted by the actions of this cowardly man who thought nothing of shooting a soldier who was simply doing his job. This criminal must be quickly brought to justice. We thank the medical workers who are giving our brother the care he needs.” and we will support him as he hopefully makes a speedy recovery. This incident highlights the dangers our members bravely face every day while serving all New Yorkers and is a reminder that any interaction can turn deadly. This should serve. as a call to action for our state leaders to work closely with our union to ensure the safety of PBA members and the communities they protect and serve.”

Cop Show is a reward for information program offering money for the arrest and conviction of anyone who shoots a New York City police officer or state police officer.

“We understand that this officer was trying to determine if the motorist needed assistance. For his efforts, he was shot at and hit by a bullet. “We hope our $10,000 cash reward will help police apprehend this suspect and get this dangerous criminal off the streets.” Someone knows something and we encourage them to call our confidential 24/7 COP SHOT hotline,” said John Provetto, Cop Shot Chairman.

Crime Stoppers of Suffolk County is also offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect.

ALSO READ: 3 people shot dead in the Bronx

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