After Hurst Police Chief Steve Niekamp died unexpectedly, nearby police departments expressed gratitude for his lifetime of service.
Niekamp, 56, died unexpectedly from a health complication on September 18, the City of Hurst announced. He had served as Chief of the Hurst Police Department since January 2018.
“Chief Niekamp was a good friend of mine as well as an impressive police chief,” Hurst Mayor Henry Wilson said in a statement. “This is a tragic loss for us, and my heart goes out to his loved ones and the members of the Hurst Police Department.”
Niekamp had served with the department since 1990. Officials called him a dedicated public servant and offered condolences to his wife, family members, and members of the department.
“His exceptional leadership and commitment to serving our residents with the highest level of professionalism will leave a lasting impact on our organization and community,” the department posted.
The department held a procession at 2 p.m. on September 19. They brought his remains from the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office near downtown Fort Worth to the Lucas Funeral Home in Hurst.
Police Respond Across Dallas-Fort Worth
The Fort Worth Police Department said Chief Eddie Garcia and the department’s officers were “heartbroken” to hear about Niekamp’s loss.
“We stand alongside his department and his family during this difficult time,” the department posted. “Chief Niekamp was a dedicated leader and a true servant to his family, community and department.”
The Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office remembered Niekamp’s contributions to public safety in the region. Officials said he was always supportive of the sheriff’s office and pointed to his work with the Auto Theft Task Force.
“His contributions to keeping North Texans safe are unmatched and have set a standard for excellence in public service. Our prayers go out to his family during this difficult time,” the sheriff’s office posted. “Rest easy, Chief. We’ll take it from here.”
The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office also asked the public to pray for Niekamp’s loved ones.
“Our hearts are with the Hurst Police Department and Chief Niekamp’s family and friends,” the sheriff’s office posted. “Please join us in praying for everyone who loved him.”
The Lewisville Police Department also honored Niekamp’s memory, offering condolences to his family and the Hurst police. City officials said his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to integrity and service left a lasting impression across the area.
“He will be remembered as a steady leader, a trusted colleague, and a true public servant,” the department posted. “May his service and dedication continue to inspire others in the days ahead.”
Niekamp’s death comes within days of other police officers’ deaths across the state.
Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Jerry Adamick Jr., age 44, died after crashing en route to an emergency on September 15, as The Dallas Express reported. Houston Police Officer Alex Roberts died in a crash on September 17 while providing a vehicle escort.
Hurst City Manager Clay Caruthers thanked Niekamp for lifelong service to his community.
“He consistently led with integrity and demonstrated unwavering loyalty and appreciation to his team,” Caruthers said. “Chief Niekamp will be dearly missed.”