Alabama police lieutenant killed while directing traffic outside church

An Alabama police lieutenant died on Monday after he was hit by a car while directing traffic at a church.Irondale police Lt.Mark Meadows, 60, was setting out cones at an intersection outside the Church of the Highlands’ main campus when he was hit by a man driving a Chevrolet Colorado, local outlet AL.com reported.

The driver immediately stopped.The incident took place before 7 a.m.on Monday as the church’s popular “21 Days of Prayer” event, which runs from Jan.

5 to Jan.25, was preparing to end for the day.Meadows was taken to nearby Grandview Medical Center, where he died from his injuries, according to Irondale police.Irondale Mayor James Stewart Jr., described Meadows as a “treasured member” of the city’s family for decades.“He was a man of few words but always led by example and embodied the heart of a true public servant,” Stewart said in a statement.

“Lt.Meadows will be dearly missed by his brothers and sisters at the Irondale Police Department, as well as by all of our City employees and citizens.

We are comforted in knowing that he is with his heavenly father, and we will continue to cover his family in prayer as they grieve this great loss.”The police department announced that grief support is available for officers and others in need following Meadows’ death.Church of the Highlands lead pastor Chris Hodges said Meadows had worked with the church since its main campus at Grants Mill opened almost 18 years ago.In a statement to AL.com, Hodges said “our hearts are heavy beyond measure,” adding that Meadows was considered family.“All our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, daughter, son, family members, fellow officers and the many who loved him,” Hodges said.“Even in the most difficult and trying times, we know our God will provide comfort, strength and reassurance based on the promise of heaven.

We as a church will do all we can to care for his family.”Alabama Gov.Kay Ivey expressed condolences to Meadows’ lo...