SILVER SPRING, Maryland -- A Montgomery County police officer who was left paralyzed after being shot more than 15 years ago died from complications last week.
Officer Kyle Olinger was conducting a traffic stop in 2003 when then-teenager Terrence Green opened fire, according to WRC-TV.
The injuries Olinger sustained forced him to spend the rest of his life confined to a wheelchair until his death on April 18.
In a letter to his fellow officers, Acting Chief Russell Hamill described Olinger as a true hero who strove to help others.
"Kyle was, without a doubt, the embodiment of what it truly means to be a hero possessed of an indomitable warrior spirit and a never quit attitude that makes one stand in awe," Hamill wrote.
On Monday morning, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan ordered the U.S. flag and Maryland state flag to be lowered to half-staff to honor Olinger.
"Lowering the flags is the least we can do to pay tribute to the life and memory of a true hero, Officer Kyle Olinger," Hogan said in a statement. "Our prayers are with his family, friends, and loved ones at this time of mourning. May he rest in peace."
The Governor's staff says the flags will remain lowered until sunset on the day of interment.
Funeral arrangements are pending.