A Creek County Sheriff’s Deputy has died in the line of duty after suffering “a medical emergency” following the arrest of a man wanted on multiple felony warrants, according to a statement from the Creek County Sheriff’s Office.
Adam Heitman, 38, died on Wednesday, July 15th, after he and his K-9 Partner Thanos helped apprehend a wanted felon who had escaped police custody and assaulted another officer.
According to the CCSO, members of multiple agencies coordinated to apprehend the suspect, later named as Justin Hughes. Hughes had previously escaped arrest by Depew police on July 7th.
During the operation, the suspect attempted to flee by jumping a fence, crossing a creek and running through an open field. Deputy Heitman and Thanos successfully pursued and apprehended the suspect, who was then taken into custody.
Less than an hour after the arrest, Heitman suffered a medical emergency while at the Creek County Sheriff’s Office, according to the CCSO’s statement. Fellow deputies and OHP troopers rendered aid until EMS arrived. Heitman was transported to Ascension St. John’s in Sapulpa, where he was pronounced dead at 7:41 p.m.
Deputy Heitman served two years with the Kiefer Police Department before joining the Creek County Sheriff’s Office. He also spent four years in the United States Marine Corps, where he served as a Team Leader with the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, and deployed to Iraq. He served in multiple roles with the Marines before being honorably discharged in 2010.
Heitman joined the CCSO in 2022, and within months of joining the agency, he was presented with the “Creek County Sheriff’s Life Saving Award” after his actions saved the life of a woman who had overdosed on heroin.
“Deputy Heitman exemplified courage, service, and dedication to others. He served his community, his fellow deputies, and his country with honor. His loss is immeasurable, and he will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of serving alongside him,” the Creek County Sheriff’s Office said.
Deputy Heitman is survived by his wife and two daughters.
Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced when they become available.