Tom Selleck Pays Tribute To ‘Blue Bloods’ Co-Star Treat Williams After He’s Killed In Motorcycle Accident

Tom Selleck is speaking out this week to pay a touching tribute to his late “Blue Bloods” co-star Treat Williams, who was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident on Monday at the age of 71.

Selleck Honors Williams

“It has been said that we are all just passing time and occupy our chair very briefly,” Selleck, 78, told People Magazine. “My friend Treat was aptly named and occupied his chair so well. I will miss him but I will not forget him. Well done, my friend.”

Selleck stars as NYC police commissioner Frank Reagan on “Blue Bloods,” and Williams had the recurring role of Lenny Ross on the CBS show.

“Blue Bloods” star Bridget Moynahan also paid tribute to Williams, who she described as an “actor’s actor” and an “absolute pleasure” to work with.

“He was a role model off screen as well,” said Moynahan, 52. “His love and devotion to his family was one for all to admire. We lost a good one, folks. RIP Treat.”

Related: Tom Selleck, 77, Reveals The One Acting Job That Left Him ‘Scared To Death’

Williams’ Death

NPR reported that Williams was killed in Vermont just before 5pm on Monday when a Honda SUV that was turning left into a parking lot hit his motorcycle.

“Williams was unable to avoid a collision and was thrown from his motorcycle. He suffered critical injuries and was airlifted to Albany Medical Center in Albany, New York, where he was pronounced dead,” Vermont State Police said in a statement, adding that Williams had been wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

The driver of the Honda was identified as 35 year-old Ryan Koss, who was treated at the scene for minor injuries. Police have said that no drugs or alcohol were involved in this incident, which they are still investigating at this time.

Williams’ death was later confirmed by his agent Barry McPherson.

“I’m just devastated. He was the nicest guy. He was so talented,” McPherson said. “He was an actor’s actor. Filmmakers loved him. He’s been the heart of the Hollywood since the late 1970s.”

Related: Tom Selleck Celebrates Success of His Show ‘Blue Bloods’

Williams’ Family Speaks Out

Williams had been married to the actress Pam Van Sant since 1988, and they shared two adult children.

“It is with great sadness that we report that our beloved Treat Williams has passed away tonight in Dorset, Vermont after a fatal motorcycle accident,” the family said in a statement, according to Daily Mail. “As you can imagine, we are shocked and greatly bereaved at this time. Treat was full of love for his family, for his life and for his craft, and was truly at the top of his game in all of it.”

“It is all so shocking right now, but please know that Treat was dearly and deeply loved and respected by his family and everyone who knew him,” they continued. “We are beyond devastated and ask that you respect our privacy as we deal with our grief. To all his fans, please know that Treat appreciated all of you and please continue to keep him in your hearts and prayers.”

What happened to Williams was incredibly tragic, and our hearts go out to Selleck and everyone else impacted by his passing. Please join us in saying a prayer for them during this difficult time.