By Bert Gambini
Albany, NY – A New York State Trooper who grew up in Cheektowaga died in an accident Wednesday when her cruiser collided head-on with a tractor trailer.
Jill Mattice, 31, a six year veteran, was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash happened Wednesday afternoon on Route 23 in the Town of Morris -- about 200 miles east of Buffalo.
Mattice, the former Jill Farrar, went to Cleveland Hill High School. She graduated in 1996.
The investigation is continuing. Mattice is the first female state trooper in New York to ever die in the line of duty.
"Her community was enhanced by her service," Governor David Paterson said in a written statement. "Her State is humbled by her sacrifice."