Holly MatkinMobile, AL – Alabama State Port Authority Police Department (ASPAPD) Officer Kimberly “Kim” Sickafoose died in the line of duty early Thursday morning after her patrol car plunged into the Mobile River.
The incident occurred near the Alabama State Docks at approximately 2:41 a.m. on May 11, WPMI reported.
The vehicle was found about 40 feet below the surface at around 8 a.m. that morning, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page.
Officer Sickafoose’s body was also recovered from the river, an Alabama State Port Authority (ASPA) spokesperson confirmed to WPMI.
Details regarding what led up to the patrol car plunging into the water have not been yet released by officials.
Investigators said they have not found any evidence of foul play and noted there does not appear to be any danger to the public, WPMI reported.
“The Alabama State Port Authority is saddened to report the death of Port Police Officer Kimberly Sickafoose, who passed away early this morning while on patrol,” the agency said in a press release, according to WPMI. “The thoughts, prayers, and support of the entire Port community are with her family.”
ASPA Director John Driscoll called Officer Sickafoose was a valued member of the ASPAPD when he announced the sad news to the rest of the port authority staff.
“Officer Sickafoose always had a kind word, a smile, and a story to share (usually about her family or beloved labrador retrievers). She was a bright light and will be deeply missed,” Director Driscoll wrote in an email to staff early on May 11.
Officer Sickafoose served many years working in Baldwin County as a law enforcement officer prior to joining the ASPAPD.
She also previously served as the Silverhill Police Department’s chief of police, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page.
She devoted the past seven years of her life to the port authority.
Former ASPAPD Chief Jimmie Flanagan said he remembers having hired Officer Sickafoose, WKRG reported.
“She was well-liked at the Port Authority,” he said. “I know the whole Port is devastated by this.”
Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine said Officer Sickafoose will be remembered as a dedicated public servant, WKRG reported.
“During this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with Officer Sickafoose’s family, offering our unwavering support, love, and prayers,” Chief Prine said. “Officer Kimberly Sickafoose will forever remain in our hearts as a shining example of valor, integrity, and dedication to public service. Let us honor her memory by continuing to uphold the principles she held dear and by supporting one another during this challenging time.”
RIP. Alabama Port Police Officer Kimberly Sickafoose drowned after her patrol truck drove into the Mobile River while on patrol. #rip #hero #eow #PortPoliceOfficerKimberlySickafoose #AlabamaPortAuthorityPolice #lawenforcement #thinblueline #bluelivesmatter #backtheblue pic.twitter.com/08b57p2Dx4
— Protecting the Blue (@protectingblue) May 11, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of Officer Kimberly Sickafoose, and with the Mobile Port Police Department, who passed away in the line of duty early this morning. pic.twitter.com/Bb1WA1oWpR
— Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (@ALEAprotects) May 11, 2023
We mourn the loss of:
Port Police Officer Kimberly Sickafoose
Alabama Port Authority Police, AlabamaEnd of Watch Thursday, May 11, 2023
Port Police Officer Kimberly Sickafoose drowned after her patrol truck drove into the Mobile River in the area of 900 Alabama State Docks… pic.twitter.com/BKdhUUrc1Q
— Beyond the Call of Duty – End of Watch (@EowRide) May 11, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Alabama State Port Authority Police Department Officer Kimberly “Kim” Sickafoose, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
