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Delmar officer killed in the line of duty memorialized

Emmanuel Wesleyan Church livestream

The Delmar Police officer killed in the line of duty is remembered at a service Monday at Emmanuel Wesleyan Church in Salisbury.

Corporal Keith Heacook was remembered fondly by those close to him and others.

 

"Keith, your watch is over, but you won't be forgotten and I know that you'll be looking down on all of us making sure that we're safe." said Heacook’s brother-in-law Todd Smith.

Smith was among the more emotional speakers at Monday’s service, noting that Heacook loved life and was a joy to be around.

Heacook was not only remembered for his work in law enforcement, but he was also praised as an amazing husband and father, and a dedicated son to his mother.

Heacook was described as very generous, genuine, and someone who cared about the people around him.

Those who spoke called it a privilege to have him in their life, and as a protector for the town of Delmar.

With Delmar split between Delaware and Maryland dignitaries from both states spoke at his funeral service.

Delaware Gov. John Carney says those in the First State are thinking of Heacook and his family.

"I'm here to bring support and love from the people of Delaware to Corporal Heacook's family and to all of you who knew and cared for him," said Carney. "I can assure you that the heart of every Delawarean is heavy in solidarity with all of you."

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan also memorialized Heacook.

"Those who knew him best say that his incredible work ethic was surpassed only by his immense love for his family," said Hogan. "I understand that when he wasn't on duty he was a skilled carpenter, that he had an easy smile, and that he knew how to enjoy the simple things in life like watching his son play baseball and visiting with his mom."

The service also included law enforcement officers from many jurisdictions paying their respects, and the playing of several voicemails from Heacook to members of his family. 

The 54-year-old Heacook was killed while answering an assault call April 25th, leaving behind a wife and 12 year old son. The suspect in the case, Randan Wilkerson, faces murder charges.

 

Joe brings over 20 years of experience in news and radio to Delaware Public Media and the All Things Considered host position. He joined DPM in November 2019 as a reporter and fill-in ATC host after six years as a reporter and anchor at commercial radio stations in New Castle and Sussex Counties.