Area law enforcement express sympathies to OPPD

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Overland Park Police Department lost its first officer in the line of duty since 1985, and neighboring law enforcement officials expressed sympathies to their fellow officers.

The Clay County Sheriff’s Department tweeted minutes after the announcement that an off-duty OPPD officer died following a shooting that involved a hit-and-run suspect that its officers “hurt with” OPPD.

“Sometimes there just aren’t the right words to express feelings in the wake of tragedy,” the tweet stated.

Trooper Ben Gardner, of the Kansas Highway Patrol, sent sympathies to OPPD as well.

“My days can reach the highest of highs helping others , to the lowest of lows in just seconds hearing of tragedies,” Gardner tweeted. “May love and support surround the city of Overland Park, it’s residence and it’s officers.”

Olathe Police sent their “thoughts and prayers” to both their fellow officers and the family of the fallen officer. Similarly, the Lawrence Police Department said their “hearts go out” to their brothers and sisters in Overland Park.

Kansas City, Kansas, police tweeted that they were “saddened beyond words” about the line of duty death.

The Lyon County, Kansas, Sheriff’s Office also expressed sympathies.

Lenexa Police said they “stand ready to support” their fellow officers. The Shawnee Police Department expressed similar thoughts.

Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson shared condolences as well.