(Richmond, Va.) — Gov. Northam has remained out of the spotlight since the controversy over a blackface photo in his medical school yearbook; however, he broke his silence Tuesday to offer his condolences over the death of Virginia State Trooper Lucas B. Dowell, who was killed in the line of duty Monday night.

In a statement, Northam said: “The passing of Trooper Dowell is a great loss to the Commonwealth. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends who knew Trooper Dowell best. We are grateful for his dedication to the safety of our communities, and for all of those who put themselves in harm’s way to protect others.”