LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- State Police Lt. Michael Avilucea, 51, of Las Cruces was surrounded by family and friends as he was laid to rest.

Hundreds of law enforcement officers from across the state say goodbye to a friend and brother.

Avilucea has in the last year has become the fifth New Mexico state police officer to die, whether on or off-duty or retired.

Less than a year ago, Chris Miribal was killed on duty in motorcycle crash.

“Each one of these officers that have died in these accidents is a tragedy and each one is unique beyond the other one. To lose Lt. Avilucea in an accident like this in incomprehensible.” said Sgt. Doug Bolich with the New Mexico State Police.

Miribal's brother said just a week shy of a year ago, he attended a similar ceremony.

“That actually helps heal it because you know so many people care about it. You see their respect when you're driving down through the procession. Those salutes show people have respect for officers,” said Robert Miribal.

Family members said the state police force has lost so many recently.

“I will support the state police at all times. I have friends and a grandson in the police force. I respect them. I think this was a wonderful turnout,” said Elvira Walters, Avilucea’s second cousin.

Avilucea's casket was draped with the American flag, and carried by his own explosive ordinance disposal team.

Officers came from as far away as New York, Washington state, California, Colorado, Arizona and Texas.

Officers who had just lost a sergeant this year drove 12 hours from Arkansas to pay respect.

“It's emotional. I feel their pain, the agency's pain and as well as the family,” said Trooper Chase Melder of the Arkansas State Police Department.

Those who worked closely with Avilucea said he would be remembered for being a leader.

“We learn lessons from him while he was alive. We'll learn lessons from him in his death, and hopefully we can prevent something as tragic happening in the future.

State police officers that worked with Avilucea in Santa Fe, Alamogordo and Las Cruces say statewide, the department has felt his loss.

They said it hit hard, like a ton of bricks.