Holly MatkinHarrah, OK – Harrah Police Department (HPD) Officer Eric Haskins died unexpectedly on Jan. 28 after suffering a medical emergency, according to his department.
The HPD confirmed the 45-year-old officer’s sudden death in a Facebook post the following day.
“We are saddened to announce that Officer Eric Haskins passed away last night,” the department said. “He suffered a medical event in which he was unable to recover.”
Officer Haskins’ exact cause of death was not released.
He devoted more than 15 years of his life to his law enforcement career, serving both the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Choctaw before he joined the HPD on Aug. 17, 2020, KWTV reported.
“Being in a smaller department, all of us officers are like family,” HPD Chief Gary Morgan told KWTV. “We are leaning on each other during this tough time.”
Chief Morgan said Officer Haskins was an asset to the department and that he worked well with members of the community he served.
“It’s a tremendous loss for our department and our community,” he told KWTV.
“We have a profound sense of loss as we recall Officer Haskins’ dedication, bravery, and commitment to keeping our communities safe,” the HPD said. “Please keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.”
Officer Haskins leaves behind his wife, Rachal, and his three children, Faith, Christian, and Abigal, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his father, brother, and a host of family members, colleagues, and friends.
“My father was an amazing man, and it is apparent that he lived a life of love and honor,” Christian told KWTV. “It is clear he had a large impact on everyone around him.”
Officer Haskins was laid to rest on Feb. 5, according to his obituary.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Harrah Police Department Officer Eric Haskins, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
