Regular Wiscasset Speedway driver Shawn Austin of Norridgewock said Monday will be a sad day, as services are held for his neighbor, Somerset County Sheriff's Cpl. Eugene Cole.

Austin also knew Cole as a customer buying building materials where Austin works. And he saw him through Cole's job.

"I have had a few times when he has pulled me over for traffic stops. But he always let me go."

On Saturday, a decal honoring the slain officer went on Austin's race car, number 61. One week earlier, he took the car on a memorial lap around the track after the speedway held a moment of silence for Cole.

John Williams, 29, of Madison is being held in connection with Cole’s death in the line duty April 25, state authorities have said.

Responding to texts Monday, Austin said of the loss of Cole, “The whole deal has really hit the entire town of Norridgewock as well as surrounding communities."

Wife Krista-Lynne Austin said Sunday, Cole lived a few houses from them. 

“Eugene Cole was a very respected officer in Somerset County, especially in our town ... Austin Racing Team wants to express their condolences to the Cole family during this time,” she added.

The decal will remain on the car indefinitely, she said. Her husband races in Wiscasset every other week, in the Strictly Streets division.