Story highlights Officer killed while setting up tire spikes during pursuit, police say

West Valley City police were trying to catch car theft suspects

(CNN) A Utah police officer was hit by a vehicle and killed early Sunday morning while trying to apprehend three people suspected of stealing a car, police said.

The three suspects are in custody, according to police in the Salt Lake City suburb of West Valley City.

The slain officer has been identified as 25-year-old Cody Brotherson, Police Chief Lee Russo said in a statement.

"Our hearts are heavy with his loss," the department tweeted.

Sen. Orrin Hatch tweeted that "Utah lost a hero today."

Read More