By Paris Rain, FOX23.com News Staff
GLENPOOL, Okla. — More than 100 people filled Faith Church in Glenpool on Wednesday to honor Creek County Sheriff’s Deputy Adam James Heitman, who died in the line of duty last week.
Law enforcement officers from more than a dozen agencies joined family, friends and community members to pay their respects to the 38-year-old deputy.
Heitman’s brother, Joshua Heitman, remembered him as a devoted brother, husband and father.
“He was one of the most amazing fathers and husbands I’ve known, and I want people to know that about him,” Joshua Heitman said.
According to officials, Deputy Heitman and his K-9 partner, Thanos, were assisting multiple law enforcement agencies in the arrest of a wanted felon about an hour before his death. Authorities said the pursuit took officers through a creek and an open field before the suspect was taken into custody.
Less than an hour after the arrest, while at the Creek County Sheriff’s Office, Heitman suffered a medical emergency. He later died.
Joshua Heitman said he learned of his brother’s condition after receiving a phone call on Wednesday night.
“I got a call Wednesday night saying that they were at the hospital,” he said. “I was getting ready to leave, and I got to the truck, and I found out they passed. I was just in shock.”
He said his brother dedicated his life to serving others, first in the U.S. Marine Corps and later in law enforcement.
“He went into the Marine Corps pretty much right after high school,” Joshua Heitman said. “He always wanted that camaraderie, that friends-and-family-oriented thing. I think he found it through policing, and he loved it more than anything.”
Family members and fellow officers said they hope Deputy Heitman will be remembered not only for his service but also for his commitment to his family and the community he served.
GoFundMe’s have been set up to aid the family. You can find them here and here if you wish to donate.
