Patrick Zamarripa, 32, was one of the five police officer killed in downtown Dallas. Before the father of two joined the force, he served three tours in Iraq. He was also a huge Texas Ranger fan.

After finding out that Zamarripa was killed in the ambush, Rangers’ third baseman and outfielder Joey Gallo posted a story on Instagram about his encounter with Zamarripa a couple of months ago.

“I’ll never forget how kind and down to earth he was. We ended up having a 15-minute conversation about sports with him. He was an avid Rangers fan. But more importantly, a great person, and family man,” Gallo wrote.

Here’s the post in full:

 

A couple months ago @nomazara26 and I were walking down the street in downtown Dallas. When an officer stopped us, Mazara and I immediately became nervous, “I know who you guys are” he said. “Joey Gallo and Nomar Mazara, can I get a picture with you guys please?” It was definitely a first for me and Nomar to have an officer, a true hero, want to meet us. His name is Patrick Zamarripa, one of the officers killed in last nights shootings in Dallas. I’ll never forget how kind and down to Earth he was. We ended up having a 15 minute conversation about sports with him. He was an avid Rangers fan. But more importantly a great person, and family man. Please keep Patrick, and all the officers affected and their families in our prayers today. #prayfordallas

A photo posted by Joey Gallo (@joeygallo24) on