Holly MatkinPhoenix, AZ – Phoenix Police Department (PPD) Sergeant Timothy “Tim” Wheeler died unexpectedly on May 9 after suffering a medical emergency at his home, according to his department.
The 44-year-old sergeant’s exact cause of death was not immediately released.
The PPD confirmed the loss of Sgt. Wheeler in a tweet on May 11.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Sgt. Tim Wheeler who passed away from a medical event at home on May 9, 2023,” the department said. “Rest in peace Sgt. Wheeler; you will be dearly missed.”
Sgt. Wheeler served in the U.S. Army and was a military police officer in Germany prior to his career in county and municipal law enforcement, according to his obituary.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Utah Valley University and later served the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office before joining the PPD in 2007.
Sgt. Wheeler was assigned to the Central City, South Mountain, and Estrella Mountain precincts during his time with the PPD, and also served on the Tactical Training Detail and Transit Unit, according to his obituary.
He held a rescue diver certification and was a member of the Tactical Response Unit.
Sgt. Wheeler was assigned to the Desert Horizon Precinct at the time of his death.
“Tim will be remembered as a devoted husband, and loving father, a precious son, a little brother, a big brother, and a true leader to his family, friends, coworkers, and community,” his obituary read. “His subtle sense of humor and passion for pranks will be carried in the memories and hearts of those who knew and loved him.”
Sgt. Wheeler leaves behind his wife of 17 years, Jennifer, as well as their three children, Ava, Connor, and Brendan.
He is also survived by his siblings, uncles, aunts, cousins, and many friends and extended family members.
Sgt. Wheeler will be laid to rest on May 22.
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Sgt. Tim Wheeler who passed away from a medical event at home on May 9, 2023. Sgt. Wheeler joined the department in 2007 and was assigned to the Desert Horizon Precinct.
Rest in peace Sgt. Wheeler; you will be dearly missed. pic.twitter.com/EfhXZiRhDa— Phoenix Police (@PhoenixPolice) May 11, 2023
PLEA statement regarding passing of Phoenix Police Sergeant Tim Wheeler pic.twitter.com/0mJzQbHVsq
— AZPLEA (@azplea) May 11, 2023
Our hearts go out to our brothers and sisters at @PhoenixPolice. Two tragic, horrible losses for the department. The #PHXFire family is sending all of our love to the families of Officer Mark Aker & Sergeant Tim Wheeler. They will be greatly missed my so many 💙 pic.twitter.com/qFnv7GiKV2
— Phoenix Fire Dept. (@PHXFire) May 11, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Phoenix Police Department Sergeant Timothy “Tim” Wheeler, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
