Delmar, DE – A Delmar police officer was found unconscious, in critical condition after responding to a fight call Sunday morning.
The incident happened at around 5:12 a.m. at the Yorkshire Estates Community in the 11000 block of Buckingham Drive, according to Delaware State Police (DSP).
An officer responded to the scene and after arriving he stopped responding to radio transmissions.
Additional officers responded and found the officer badly wounded and unresponsive.
The officer was transported to the hospital in critical condition.
Delmar Police Chief Ivan Barkley identified the officer as Corporal Keith Heacook, a 22-year veteran, according to Dover Post.
Chief Barkley said that the officer was attacked and suffered a traumatic brain injury.
An elderly couple was found badly wounded across the street from the original incident, in what appears to be a separate, but related assault.
Both elderly victims were transported to the hospital with significant injuries, according to DSP.
Multiple suspects were taken into custody and there is no further threat to the community, according to DSP. No further information about the suspects has been released at this time.
#BREAKING: A police officer in #Delmar was reportedly attacked while responding to a call earlier this morning. No further information is available at this time. @wboc
— Conall Smith (@Smith_Conall) April 25, 2021
Sending prayers for the Delmar Police department and this officer's family. #delmarvalawenforcement #DelmarPolice pic.twitter.com/uw38sNOOyn
— Delmarva Supports Law Enforcement (@delmarvablue) April 25, 2021
“Corporal Keith Heacook is a 22 year veteran and has been employed with our department since 1998.” said Chief Barkley said, according to DSP. “He is a husband, son, brother, and father. Keith is fighting for his life right now and he needs your prayers along with the elderly couple who were also injured. Members from the Delmar Police appreciate the outpouring of community support as we continue to move forward. We appreciate the support from the Delaware State Police, Wicomico County Sheriffs Office, Maryland State Police, and all other agencies who responded and are assisting with this investigation.”