Zane Wickham Obituary, Death; – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is actively pursuing their inquiry into the shooting incident that resulted in the death of a police officer in Hays on Sunday.
On Monday, the City of Hays acknowledged the heartbreaking loss of Hays Police Department Sgt. Scott Heimann, as stated in a city announcement. He had served the community of Hays with honor, bravery, and commitment since 2016.
Sgt. Heimann lost his life in the line of duty while responding to an incident involving a barricaded subject.
On Saturday, September 27, shortly before midnight, the Hays Police Department (HPD) received a 911 call reporting that a woman had escaped from a domestic violence situation at a residence located in the 2000 block of E. 21st Street in Hays, according to a media release from the KBI.
The woman indicated that as she attempted to escape, her partner, identified as Zane Wickham, 34, of Hays, rammed his truck into her vehicle. She fled to a nearby house to seek assistance.
Preliminary reports suggest that on September 28, at approximately 1:55 a.m., officers from HPD and a trooper from the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) were establishing a perimeter near the backyard of Wickham’s home in the 2200 block of Downing Street. A single gunshot was discharged from within the residence, striking Police Sgt. Heimann.
Officers promptly initiated life-saving procedures. Heimann was subsequently airlifted to a regional hospital. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after 4 a.m.
The HPD Special Situation Response Team, the KHP Special Response Team, and the KBI High Risk Warrant Team responded to the location where Wickham had barricaded himself. The teams engaged in negotiations with the suspect. During the standoff, gas munitions, projectiles designed to shatter windows, and a surveillance drone were deployed into the residence. Throughout the incident, no law enforcement officers discharged their service weapons.
At approximately, 6:15 a.m., tactical teams entered the house and found Wickham deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
As a city, we mourn together. We will remember Scott not only for how he served, but for who he was: a dedicated professional who served our city with unwavering commitment, integrity, and bravery. We ask the community to keep Scott’s loved ones in your thoughts and respect their privacy during this incredibly difficult time.
“The City Commission extends our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of our fallen officer,” said Mayor Sandy Jacobs. “His service and sacrifice in protecting our community will never be forgotten. We stand united with our Police Department and with the entire community as we navigate this difficult time. We ask everyone to keep all those affected in their thoughts and prayers.”
“Today we are tragically reminded that Police Officers serve and protect their communities putting the lives of others above their own,” said Police Chief Don Scheibler. “Sgt. Scott Heimann gave his life in this service exemplifying dedication to the community and the safety of others.”
“Our department, and community alike, will greatly miss his involvement, professionalism, and positive impact in the City of Hays. I hope the community recognizes the service of Sgt. Heimann and takes this moment to honor his service.”
