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Norton Shores officer dies after early morning crash

Posted at 9:06 AM, May 10, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-11 00:15:58-04

Officer Jon Ginka (Photo courtesy: Norton Shores Police Department)

NORTON SHORES, Mich. — A Norton Shores Police officer died Wednesday after a crash involving his cruiser while on duty.

Police say officer Jonathan Ginka was driving south on Henry Street south of Ross Road at about 2:30 a.m. when his cruiser left the road and struck a tree.

Ginka, 34, was taken to the hospital and later died from his injuries.

Ginka was a 10-year veteran of the department.  He leaves behind a wife and two kids, according to police.

Norton Shores Police Chief Jon Gale called Ginka's death a "horrific loss"  and said the department's office would be closed Wednesday.

"He was a highly decorated veteran, and will truly be missed," Gale said during a press conference.

Michigan State Police are investigating the crash. Funeral arrangements haven't been made final yet.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.