The North Carolina State Highway Patrol community is mourning the loss of one of its own, Master Trooper Anthony S. Godwin, who passed away while off-duty on New Year's Eve. WXII 12 reported that Godwin, cherished by family and colleagues, leaves a void with his wife and two children now bereft of his presence.

Joining the state patrol force in November 2012 after graduating from the 129th Basic Highway Patrol School, Godwin was stationed in Troop B, dutifully serving Cumberland, Brunswick, Columbus counties; his years of service marked by a dedication to the safety and well-being of those communities CBS 17 mentioned the gravity of the loss, highlighting the patrol commander's respects, "On behalf of the patrol family, I extend our heartfelt prayers and sympathies to the entire Godwin family as they cope during this tremendous loss."

In a shared sentiment of the collective grief and somber reality setting over regional law enforcement, the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office expressed their condolences on social media, along with the Columbus County Sheriff's Office which echoed the tribute, "It is with heavy hearts that we join the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and our community in mourning the loss of Master Trooper Anthony Godwin. Trooper Godwin dedicated his life to protecting and serving the people of North Carolina, embodying the highest values of duty, honor, and courage," as noted in the compassionately crafted Facebook post obtained by WXII12 .

Former trooper and current Sheriff Bill Rogers lent a poignant perspective on Godwin's commitment and character, "Master Trooper Anthony Godwin exemplified what it means to serve with integrity and compassion. His commitment to safety and justice made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him, and his loss is deeply felt by all of us in law enforcement," Rogers conveyed these words in remembrance as per WRAL .