DELMAR, Del.- The Delmar police officer who was attacked on Sunday has been pronounced clinically deceased.
At a Wednesday evening press conference held at the Delmar Police Department, Delmar Police Chief Ivan Barkley announced that Cpl. Keith Heacook is still on life support, but will be taken off soon. But even in his passing, Barkley said Heacook is helping others.
"His family has graciously decided to donate his organs," Barkley said.
Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings spoke at the press conference, announcing the numerous charges filed against the suspect in Heacook's attack, 30-year-old Randon D. Wilkerson, will now be upgraded to include murder.
She says Wilkerson--who detectives say confessed to brutally beating his elderly neighbors and assaulted a medical professional while under arrest--will be prosecuted to the "fullest extent of the law."
"He will be held accountable for his heinous crimes against Cpl. Heacook, against the elderly couple he viciously assaulted, and against Delmar and our state," Jennings said. "The DOJ has been working together with Delmar and Delaware State Police, and all are doing everything in our power to ensure a successful prosecution."
Randon D. Wilkerson
Jennings remembered Heacook as a man who dedicated his life to public service. He worked for the Delmar Police Department for more than 20 years.
"Tonight we remember a father and a husband; a veteran of Delmar’s police force; and a brother in Delaware’s law enforcement family," Jennings said. "Tonight we mourn the loss of a man who devoted his life to serving others. Tonight we acknowledge law enforcement across the state, who willingly face danger each day so the rest of us don’t have to."
On Thursday morning, U.S. Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.), co-chair of the Senate Law Enforcement Caucus, issued the following statement about Heacook:
"Police Cpl. Keith Heacook was deeply dedicated to helping people in his community, and my heart breaks for his family, friends, and fellow law enforcement officers following the tragic news of his death," Coons said. "The Delmar Police Department was fortunate to have a hero and 22-year veteran among its ranks, and Annie and I have Keith's family in our thoughts and prayers."
And on Thursday afternoon, U.S. Sen Tom Carper (D-Del.), said in a statement, "Martha and I are heartbroken to hear the news that Delmar lost a true public servant with the passing of Cpl. Keith Heacook, who gave his life protecting his community. Our prayers go out to his wife, son, family and fellow officers as we mourn his life and honor his heroic efforts that day."
Funeral arrangements have not been made for Heacook yet, but police say that will come in the days ahead.
Also at Wednesday's press conference, Delaware State Police Cpl. Gary Fournier announced the neighbors have been released from the hospital and are resting at home.