WESTON, Conn. -- Norwalk's first police officer killed in the line of duty in 26 years leaves behind a young daughter.

Officer Matthew Morelli, an 11-year veteran, is survived by his parents and two older brothers. Channel 3 Eyewitness News reporter Katy Zachry reported the family is a staple in the small town of Weston.

Weston Police Chief John Troxell knew Morelli when the officer was a young boy. Morelli's life ended Friday when someone shot and killed him 26 minutes after midnight.

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Morelli has always had a home in the small town of Weston. Troxell goes back decades with the family.

"I always knew him as a good kid when he was growing up," Troxell said.

Morelli grew up on Wilson Road, where his parents still live today. After graduating from Weston High School, Morelli became a U.S. Marine and served combat duty in Operation Desert Storm.

In 1996, he returned to Connecticut and became a police officer in Norwalk.

"I know that was a happy day for him. He wanted to be a police officer, and he was happy to be hired by the Norwalk Police Department," Troxell said.

Troxell received the phone call overnight that Morelli had been shot and killed while on duty.

Norwalk Police Chief Harry Rilling said Friday morning that Morelli broadcasted over the radio that he was stepping out of his cruiser.

"Shortly after that we heard another broadcast, but then nothing after that," Rilling said. Police declined to specify what was said.

Troxell said as much as the community is mourning, it's nothing compared to his family -- including his young daughter.

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"It's a huge loss for any police officer to hear that another officer was killed in the line of duty," Troxell said. "He was a terrific man and is an excellent police officer."

Shortly after 1 p.m., Morelli's body was taken to the Office of State Medical Examiner in Farmington for a complete autopsy, Resnick said. Shortly thereafter, Morelli's squad car was towed to state police Troop G in Bridgeport.

If you have any information regarding the investigation, contact the Norwalk Police Department's dedicated telephone tip line by dialing 203-854-3111, or by fax by dialing 203-854-3006.