NORWALK, Conn. -- Autopsy results on the body of a Norwalk police officer who was shot and killed in the line of duty are not likely to be available for weeks.

A spokeswoman for the state's medical examiner said a conclusion on the cause and manner of Matthew Morelli's death is pending until more studies are concluded.

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Authorities said such delays are not unusual in complicated cases, particularly those involving the legal ramifications of homicide.

Morelli, 38, was on patrol early Friday when he stepped out of his cruiser to investigate suspicious activity in a parking lot. A backup officer found Morelli's body within a minute of his last radio call to police headquarters.

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.

Police said officers responded to the scene within one minute of Morelli's last broadcast. Morelli was pronounced dead at the scene.

Shortly after 1 p.m. Friday, 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.

Officials recovered weapons -- including the officer's gun -- at the scene. It's unknown what may led up to the shooting.

The 11-year veteran's death marks the city's fifth police officer killed in the line of duty.

"It's a shock and tragedy anytime you have an officer killed in the line of duty," Rilling said. "Officer Morelli served with pride and distinction."

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.