A community is in shock Monday after a popular New York State Police Sergeant died unexpectedly.

Warner Hein was a 20-year veteran of the state police and the zone commander of Troop F at the Monroe Barracks. Hein died overnight Sunday in his New Paltz home.

Colleagues of Hein say it was difficult coming to work knowing Hein wouldn?t be there. Flags at the Monroe Barracks were at half-mast to honor Hein, who friends and family say will be missed throughout Hudson Valley.

?He was a father-figure. He was everything,? said Kiryas Joel Public Safety Director Moses Witriol. ?He was a personal friend to the community and to me. He will be missed.?

Funeral arrangements for Hein are still pending.