A Long Island state trooper He was shot while on patrol. The gunman, who was found on the Southern State Parkway late Wednesday night, is expected to be released from the hospital Friday afternoon as the search for him continues.

Trooper Thomas Mascia prepares to leave Nassau University Medical Center during a picket ceremony attended by his fellow state troopers from Farmingdale-based Troop L, according to State Police officials.

According to authorities, Mascia had approached a black car, believed to be a Dodge Charger, that he thought was stranded on the Southern State Parkway in West Hempstead around 11:45 p.m. Wednesday before gunshots rang out.

Mascia was shot in his right leg, near the knee, and underwent surgery on Thursday after police officials said his condition was stable but he was “awake and conscious.”

Mascia is a Nassau County resident who State Police say has been on the force since 2019.

According to authorities, he was patrolling alone on the westbound Southern State Parkway just east of exit 17 when he saw the dark-colored sedan parked in the left median.

But when Mascia approached the vehicle, he heard several gunshots through the driver’s side window and realized he was injured, police said.

The trooper then retreated behind the patrol car as the vehicle sped away westbound, according to officials.

State Police Superintendent Steven James said Mascia was unable to return fire because the suspect immediately fled, but he treated his wound by applying a tourniquet and called for help.

Police said the suspect is believed to be male and have a temporary New Jersey license plate: 997-636T. The car also featured tinted rear windows and custom matte gray dual exhaust tips.

Authorities asked anyone with information about Wednesday’s shooting to call State Police at 631-756-3300.

with Maureen Mullarkey