Patrol Sergeant Kenneth Eugene Snider

Patrol Sergeant Kenneth Eugene Snider

Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office, Kansas

End of Watch Friday, April 18, 1997

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Kenneth Eugene Snider

Sergeant Kenny Snider was stabbed to death after responding to a domestic disturbance at a house on the 4500 block of South Juniper Place.

He and three other deputies had responded to the call and were assessing what was happening when the suspect ran through the house. All the deputies followed and a struggle ensued by the back door. Within a matter of seconds, the suspect pulled a knife and stabbed Sergeant Snider in the back, severing a major artery. He attempted to stab the other deputies but was subdued.

Sergeant Snider was pronounced dead upon arrival at a local hospital. The suspect had a history of mental illness and was well known to the police. He had been arrested in the past for battery on a law enforcement officer and was on parole at the time of the attack. In August 1998, the suspect died during a struggle with detention deputies at the Sedgwick County Detention Facility while incarcerated during his trial.

Deputy Snider was a United States Navy veteran who had served with the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department for over 20 years and had previously served with the Witchita Police Department for five years. He is survived by his wife.

Bio

  • Age 48
  • Tour 25 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Stabbed
  • Weapon Edged weapon; Knife
  • Offender Killed during fight with prison guards

domestic, EDP, parolee

Most Recent Reflection

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Almost 28 years later and my family and I still think of you. I was too young to truly remember you before you passed as I was only 3 years old. But, I have grown up to know you were ornery, comical, a fantastic officer and leader, and an overall inspiring person to know on every level. My family and I went out on the boat with you and Susie many times and camped. The pranks you would play and the stories you would tell will forever be in our hearts.

As my dad has now passed away 6 months ago, I know you are both up in heaven having the time of your lives water skiing and laughing by the fire.

Rest easy. You’re always missed.

Danielle (Heidrick) Mariño
Family Friend

April 13, 2025

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