State Capitol Police chief dies

State Capitol Police Chief W. Scott Hunter, a veteran officer who also served with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, died Friday after a long illness, officials said.

State officials remembered Hunter, 49, for leading the Capitol Police through tough budget cuts in 2011 while ensuring security at the state government complex was not compromised. The agency is responsible for protecting state-owned property in Wake County and providing security during events including demonstrations, inaugurations and hearings.

“Chief Hunter was a loyal employee, devoted friend and family man. He was my friend and a friend to many others in the department who admired him for his compassion, sense of humor and quick wit,” Department of Public Safety Secretary Reuben Young said in a statement. “He leaves behind a wife and three children, who in addition to all of us in the department, will miss him immensely.”

Hunter became chief in 2003 after serving 18 years with the Highway Patrol.