Polk County Police Department, Georgia
End of Watch Friday, September 29, 2017
Add to My HeroesKristen Nicole Hearne
Detective Kristen Hearne was shot and killed as she and another officer responded to reports of a stolen vehicle at the intersection of Highway 100 and Santa Claus Road.
As the officers arrived at the location, they were ambushed by a male subject. Detective Hearne, who was not wearing a vest, was fatally wounded. The second officer was struck in the vest and was wounded.
A female subject was taken into custody at the scene. The male subject fled the scene but was arrested a short time later after a massive manhunt and charged with murder. In March 2022, the male subject pleaded guilty, avoiding the death penalty, and was sentenced to life in prison without parole. In November 2022, he committed suicide.
Detective Hearne served in law enforcement for 10 years. Her tenure included the Floyd County Sheriff's Department and later the Polk County Police Department for five years. She is survived by her husband and 3-year-old son, her parents, brothers, stepmother, and grandparents.
Bio
- Age 29
- Tour 10 years
- Badge 844
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Life without parole- Committed suicide
Most Recent Reflection
View all 226 ReflectionsKristen was a beautiful, loving mother, daughter and sister. She loved her job. She was full of life and would light up every room she walked into with her beautiful smile and laughter. She was loved by all who knew her and touched so many peoples lives. We will never forget you Kristen, we miss you every day. Rest high on that mountain #844. We will see you again. Momma, Daddy, Isaac, Joseph
Trish Brewer
Mother
Detective Kristen Hearne
September 29, 2017
August 4, 2024
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