Rhode Island State Police Detective Sergeant James D. Dougherty died Sunday in an off-duty accident. His vehicle hydroplaned after hitting standing water, veered off the right shoulder and struck a utility pole.
Sergeant Dougherty was part of an undercover drug sting that had lead to the earlier arrest of three Providence police officers. State officials say that Dougherty's death will not hinder the investigation.
A wake is scheduled for Wednesday at the Russel J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, and a funeral on Thursday at Saints John and Paul Church, in Coventry.
Governor Carcieri has ordered all state flags to be flown at half staff until after the funeral.