A former Sartell police chief was killed over the weekend while riding his bicycle.

A Monday night post on Facebook from the Sartell Police Department confirmed retired Police Chief Bob Ringstrom died on Friday as a result of “a tragic accident.”

The post also added the following statement, “Bob was a respected leader to his staff and the community. He remained connected with much of our staff after retirement and he will be missed.

Chief Ringstrom is credited with creating officer assignments inside the Sartell Schools and leading us through an era where professional standards were enhanced and turned the job of policing into a profession. Both concepts that he embraced and supported in our city.”

“He was a great guy,” said Captain Kelly Mader, who was hired onto the Sartell Police Department by Chief Ringstrom. “Great guy to work for.. The reason you’re at the job like I am is because of him. He trusted me and gave me this opportunity. You never know what tomorrow holds.”

An obituary states Ringstrom retired in 2004.