Holly MatkinDearborn, MI – Dearborn Police Department (DPD) Sergeant Christopher Hampton died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Nov. 25.
The 33-year-old sergeant’s body was found near the area of Michigan Avenue and the Southfield Freeway at approximately 10 a.m., the Press & Guide reported.
An investigation revealed he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, according to the Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Sgt. Hampton served the DPD for 10 years.
“This is a tragic situation for our department, our community, and for the family of our fallen officer,” Dearborn Police Chief Ronald Haddad said in a statement to the Press & Guide. “As we grieve as a law enforcement family, please respect the privacy of the family during this extremely difficult time.”
The young sergeant had previously been cleared of any wrongdoing in connection with an officer-involved shooting that occurred in 2015, but a $10 million wrongful death lawsuit remained ongoing, the Press & Guide reported.
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy determined Sgt. Hampton had shot his attacker in self-defense, according to WWJ.
“Our entire community mourns the loss of one of our own,” Dearborn Mayor Jack O’Reilly said in a Facebook post the day after Sgt. Hampton’s death. “Our prayers and thoughts go out to his family and friends. May He Rest In Peace.”
“The coming days will be difficult and we must continue to support one another,” O’Reilly added. “I remain forever grateful for our work force that serves our City each and every day.”
Sgt. Hampton leaves behind his wife, Karly, and his daughter, Blakely, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his parents, siblings, in-laws, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
Sgt. Hampton was laid to rest on Dec. 2, according to his obituary.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Dearborn Police Department Sergeant Christopher Hampton, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
