A rough weekend for the Platte County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies are mourning one of their own who died in the line of duty.
Flags at the Platte county sheriff's office are lowered to half-staff...
A whole- hearted tribute to a deputy killed in the line of duty.
Loved ones gathered there for strength.
"It's one of those things you know can happen, but it just slaps you in the face," Lieutenant Steve Terry, Nebraska State Patrol said.
Deputy Christopher Johnson was known in the workplace as he was at home. He was always ready and willing to help someone in times of need.
"He treated myself the same as someone he'd put in his car arresting. Respectful, loyal and an amazing guy," Rich Gordon, a family friend said.
Just like any law enforcement officer, Deputy Johnson risked his life to protect others everyday.
"They do take precautions, but there is risk when they are responding to a call. It's part of the job that we do," Platte County Sheriff Jon Zavadil said.
State troopers say deputy Johnson was responding to a crash. He was eastbound on highway 91 about 30 miles north west of Columbus before his patrol car collided with a semi truck making a left turn in this intersection. The 34-year old died on the scene.
Witnesses in the area believe this hill could have been a factor in the accident because it's hard to see on-coming traffic and the intersection straight ahead.
"We did simulate having a truck at the scene to see when the patrol car would have been scene with his flashing headlights on," Lieutenant Terry said.
State troopers are still trying to find answers while loved ones try to say goodbye.
"God works in mysterious ways and apparently it was his time to go. No matter what he did or the other person did, it was his time," Jeremiah Johnson, Chris's cousin said.
Though Johnson's time was brief, the light he projected in the lives of others won't ever fade.
The driver of the semi was treated for minor injuries.
Deputy Christopher Johnson leaves behind a wife and a 10-year-old son.
No word yet on funeral arrangements.