LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — The family of a fallen Georgia State Patrol Trooper received his college degree at Georgia Gwinnett College on his behalf on Thursday.
Trooper Jimmy Cenescar was killed on January 28 after his patrol car went off the road into an embankment as he attempted to pull over a motorcyclist traveling at a high speed.
"Jimmy impacted the lives of so many of our GGC community and beyond. In 2021, he saved a citizen's life, and we featured an article about his bravery in our college magazine," said Dr. Jann Joseph, president of the college. "But we are honored and touched that Jimmy's family members are here in his memory, and they are here to accept his well-earned degree posthumously."
His little brother, Joel Cenescar, walked across the stage and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice on his brother's behalf.
Trooper Jimmy Cenescar also minored in political science during his time at the college.
Other GSP Troopers, Atlanta Police officers and GGC Police officers joined the college in his honor.
"We are forever grateful for Jimmy’s service and dedication," the college said in a statement.
"And to the Cenescar family, thank you for sharing Jimmy with us. He was a light and we know his light would continuously shine through you and everyone he touched while here," Joseph added.
The motorcyclist, Gerson Ayala-Rodriguez, was formally indicted in April. Ayala-Rodriguez faces charges including felony murder, first-degree vehicular homicide, tampering with evidence and three counts of fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer.
According to the district attorney's office, it all started when Trooper Cenescar attempted to pull over Ayala-Rodriguez for traveling at a high speed, reaching speeds of up to 140 mph.
Cenescar died after officers said Ayala-Rodriguez zipped his motorcycle between two cars, forcing the trooper to swerve and lose control of his patrol car.
Trooper Cenescar's patrol car went off the road on I-85 south of State Route 317 and down a steep embankment during the chase. The district attorney's office said Cenescar's patrol car hit trees, shrubbery, a street sign and a retaining wall.
According to the district attorney, shortly after the crash, the suspect allegedly destroyed the license plate on his motorcycle during the chase.
The trooper's death came with an outpour of condolences, including from Gov. Brian Kemp. His funeral was in February, and Gov. Kemp attended and spoke about Cenescar. The governor said that Cenescar leaves behind a loving family and a fiancée.