Holly MatkinGuthrie, OK – Guthrie Police Department (GPD) Lieutenant Mark Bruning died unexpectedly at his home on July 28, according to his department.
The 47-year-old lieutenant’s exact cause of death was not released.
Logan County Sheriff Damon Devereaux said there were no signs of foul play and that the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case, KWTV reported.
The GPD announced Lt. Bruning’s passing in a press release the following day.
“It is with the deepest sadness the Guthrie Police Department announces Lieutenant Mark Bruning passed away at his residence on Thursday evening,” the police department said. “Lieutenant Bruning was a 27 year veteran of the Guthrie Police Department and left an indelible fingerprint on our hearts.”
Prior to joining the WPD as an officer, he served the department as a dispatcher, the Guthrie News Page reported.
In addition to his role as a law enforcement officer, Lt. Bruning was also a Woodcrest Volunteer Fire Department (WVFD) captain, where he served as both an EMT and as a firefighter, according to his obituary.
WVFD Chief Luke Young said Lt. Bruning dedicated his life to serving others, KWTV reported.
“It’s hard. It’s hard for all of us,” Chief Young said. “It’s hard to choke back the emotion, the tears.”
He said Lt. Bruning was a guide, leader, and mentor to those with whom he served, KWTV reported.
“We all will honor that,” the chief continued. “It’s truly a calling where you have to have a servant’s heart. Mark showed that in every aspect of what he did.”
Chief Young said the WVFD unanimously voted to name its meeting and conference room in Lt. Bruning’s honor, KWTV reported.
The lieutenant leaves behind his wife, Heather, as well as his daughter, Bailey, and his granddaughter, Anderson, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his mother, two sisters, grandmother, nephews, nieces, and his in-laws.
“Please join with us in praying for Lieutenant Bruning’s family, coworkers and many friends,” the GPD said.
Lt. Bruning was laid to rest on Aug. 3.
We are truly saddened by the passing of Guthrie police officer, Lt. Mark Bruning. Just this week, Lt. Bruning was involved in a run to honor our fallen officer, Sgt. CJ Nelson. Our hearts are with Lt. Bruning’s loved ones, the Guthrie PD, & the community of Guthrie. pic.twitter.com/7GB9fPbxQ4
— Edmond Police Dept (@EdmondPD) July 29, 2022
Our hearts go out to the Guthrie Police Department as they announce the passing of Lieutenant Mark Bruning, a 27 year veteran of the Guthrie Police Department. Please join with us in praying for Lieutenant Bruning’s family, coworkers, and many friends. pic.twitter.com/Gls20xfDfJ
— Ardmore, OK – Police Department (@ardmorepd) July 31, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Guthrie Police Department Lieutenant Mark Bruning, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
