Holly MatkinMoscow Township, MI – Tecumseh Police Department (TPD) Sergeant Darrin Briggs died Dec. 14 after a downed tree he was cutting rolled over the top of him.
The 45-year-old sergeant was attempting to cut the tree with a chainsaw at his home on Sterling Road when the accident occurred, and he ended up trapped beneath it, according to the Detroit Free Press.
The Michigan State Police (MSP) is handling the ongoing investigation into Sgt. Briggs’ death, but said they do not suspect foul play.
Tecumseh Police Chief Brett Coker described the veteran officer as “an absolutely wonderful guy” who was very “down-to-earth,” WTOL reported.
He served the TPD for 23 years.
“It’s very sad and unfortunate to lose Darrin like that,” Chief Coker said.
Sgt. Briggs graduated from Lake Superior State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Conservation Law Enforcement prior to joining TPD over two decades ago, according to his obituary.
He was a “true outdoorsman” who enjoyed hunting and any outdoor activity, the tribute read.
Even after being promoted to the rank of sergeant in March of 2019, he opted to work night shifts as opposed to using his seniority to request a dayshift routine, Chief Coker told The Daily Telegram.
Sgt. Briggs leaves behind his wife, Becky.
He is also survived by his mother, stepfather, siblings, grandmothers, and seven nieces and nephews.
“Darrin was more than just a coworker. He was a friend,” Kristen Smith wrote in a memorial tribute. “He was a dependable man with principles and morals, a man dedicated to his wife and family, lover of the outdoors, mentor for all things farming and gardening, and a teller of stories when you finally got him to talk to you. He will be missed.”
Sgt. Briggs’ visitation was held on Thursday, according to his obituary.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Tecumseh Police Department Sergeant Darrin Briggs, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
