Ohio State Highway Patrol Sergeant Dies Off-Duty | Defiance Post

Ohio State Highway Patrol Mourns Sergeant matthew Cook’s Death

The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is in mourning following the off-duty death of Sergeant Matthew Cook, a highly respected member of the Defiance Post. The tragic loss was recognized by the OSHP on Thursday,with thoughts extended to Cook’s family,the Findlay District,and the entire patrol community.

A Decorated Career Cut Short

Sergeant Cook joined the OSHP in 2014 and quickly established himself as a dedicated and accomplished officer. He was repeatedly recognized as the Findlay Post Trooper of the Year, and also received the prestigious Criminal Patrol Award for his exceptional work. In 2024, Cook was promoted to the rank of sergeant, a testament to his leadership and commitment to service.

Did you know? – The ohio State Highway Patrol was founded in 1933, initially as a motorcycle patrol, and has grown into a full-service law enforcement agency.

Investigation and Community Response

Hancock County Sheriff Michael Cortez announced that Cook died Wednesday evening at his home. An investigation is currently underway, but preliminary findings suggest the cause of death was self-induced, with no indication of foul play or any threat to the public.

Following his death, a solemn procession of lights from dozens of law enforcement agencies and first responders transported sergeant Cook’s body from Hancock County to Lucas County, demonstrating a profound display of respect for his years of service.

Pro tip – Law enforcement officers frequently enough receive specialized training in crisis intervention and mental health awareness to better serve the public and themselves.

Outpouring of Grief and Support

The loss of Sergeant Cook has resonated deeply within the community and among elected officials. State Rep. Haraz Ghanbari shared photos from a July 2022 ride-along with Cook, describing him as a friend and extending his family’s thoughts and prayers to those affected. “My family’s thoughts and prayers are with Sergeant Cook’s family, the Findlay District and the Patrol family as a whole,” Ghanbari said.

Findlay Mayor Christina Muryn expressed her sorrow in a Facebook post, stating simply, “My heart is heavy.”

Resources Available

For anyone struggling with tough emotions or in distress, the National 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers free and confidential support 24/7. Individuals can connect with a local crisis center by dialing 988 or accessing resources online at 988lifeline.org.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol has not released further details at this time, but continues to offer support to sergeant Cook’s family and colleagues as they navigate this difficult period.

Here’s a breakdown of how the questions are answered in the revised report:

* Who: Sergeant Matthew Cook, a member of the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Defiance Post.
* What: Sergeant cook died Wednesday evening at his home. The cause of death is preliminarily determined to be self-induced.
* why: While the exact reasons are not detailed, the investigation suggests the death was self-induced.
* How did it end?: Sergeant Cook died at his home. Following his death, a procession of law enforcement vehicles transported his body from Hancock County to Lucas County. The OSHP is providing support to his family and colleagues.