A Missouri state trooper has tragically lost his life while helping in a mutual aid operation in Mississippi County, officials reported.
Officer Henry Franklin, 41, was fatally shot on October 6 while assisting the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office in carrying out a warrant at a home, according to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety (SDPS).
This warrant was related to Nathan B. Peters, 36, who was sought in connection with a murder that had occurred earlier in the day, as stated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
The SDPS shared on their Facebook page that Franklin, who was part of their tactical team, responded to a mutual aid request aimed at finding and arresting Peters.
According to authorities, Peters barricaded himself inside the residence and opened fire on the officers shortly after 7:35 p.m., during which Franklin was hit.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Troop C SWAT team was called in for additional support.
When officers entered the home at around 12:35 a.m. on Tuesday, they discovered Peters deceased, apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Franklin had been with the SDPS since June 2013 and had previously served in the Army National Guard.
He was well-known in the community for being the handler of K-9 Odin, his loyal service dog.
In a heartfelt statement on Facebook, SDPS Director James McMillen acknowledged the deep loss the department has faced, describing Franklin as “not only a dedicated public servant, but also a husband, father, son, and brother.” He urged the community to keep Franklin’s family and the department in their thoughts during this challenging time.
Born and raised in Charleston, Missouri, Franklin is survived by his wife and four children.
To honor his sacrifice, Sikeston Mayor Greg Turnbow has ordered that all flags in the city be flown at half-staff until after Franklin’s funeral.
The SDPS did not provide an immediate comment when contacted.
