Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

I met Deputy Locke’s father today by chance at a local gas station in Franklin County, AL. He approached me as I am a deputy Sheriff there and began to thank me for what I do. He went on to tell me about his son and what had happened. He emphasized how there is no one who ever has our back like our families do. I could see that his heart still hurt by the tears gathering in the corners of his eyes. He told me, “ you make sure you go home to your family. That’s the most important job you have. And you tell your kids everyday you love them.” I stood there speechless as I listened to him tell me how that the loss of a loved one affects everyone inside and out. He gave me a bracelet that said honor the fallen Deputy Matthew Locke #565. I didn’t know what to say. All I could do was give him a hug as the tears also began to well up in my eyes. That was at near 8am today and now it is 9:30pm and I have thought about all he said to me all day. I did not personally ever meet Deputy Locke but I met his dad and there was no doubt he loved his Son and was proud of him. I will be In prayer for Deputy Locke’s family. All of them.

Lieutenant Clint Holcombe
Franklin County Sheriff’s Office

May 15, 2025

As year number 3 approaches, my heart is heavy once again. You are mentioned often in our facility. Prayers continued for Riley and your family! #565

911 Dispatcher Kela Russell
Hardin County E911

September 24, 2024

I somehow ended up here tonight looking at FB memories. I miss you man. Keep a spot on the range for me.

Sergeant Kevin Thompson
Hardin County Sheriff’s Department

March 18, 2024

Always on my mind, brother. Miss you.

Patrolman Kaleb Sanders
Selmer Police Department (TN)

February 24, 2024

In the constellation of our community, certain stars shine brighter than others, guiding, protecting, and inspiring us all. Deputy Mathew Locke was undoubtedly one of those brilliant stars. His dedication to safeguarding his community with integrity and compassion resonated with everyone, even those, like me, who never had the privilege of knowing him personally.
To Mathew's family, on this somber anniversary, please know that both I and the Law Enforcement Innovation Center extend our deepest condolences. We mourn alongside you, recognizing the enormity of your loss. Understand that Mathew's legacy will endure, not just in the stories recounted about him, but in the lives he touched and the differences he made.
In the vast expanse of heroes that have graced our lives, Deputy Mathew Locke will forever stand out. His commitment, heroism, and sacrifice to the community he loved will continue to inspire generations to come.
Rest in peace, Deputy Locke. Your light will forever guide us.

Jason Jones
Law Enforcement Innovation Center

September 25, 2023

Deputy Locke, can’t imagine what your family is feeling this year. Praying for them, and thank you for your sacrifice.

You’re a hero. We will never forget.

We’ll hold the line down here.

Officer
Tennessee

September 25, 2022

Rest in peace Deputy Sheriff Matthew Locke, and thank you for your service.

CBP Officer(retired), Luis R Otero
DHS/Bureau Of Customs And Border Protection

November 3, 2021

The true measure of a person
is not found in the
might of their arm,
their wealth
or their power –
it is found in the strength
of their character.

There is no greater testimony to
ones character, than ones
willingness to sacrifice all,
in the noble quest of
providing protection to all
whom they serve.

Author Unknown

"Always Ready, Always There"

Javier Cornejo
Police Officer, Retired
City of Milwaukee Police Department
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

October 18, 2021

Deputy Locke,

Thank you for your sacrifice for our nation. May you be with the Lord and may he be with your family.

Det. Russ Cain
Pittsburgh PD

October 17, 2021

Thank you for your service and sacrifice. Rest In Peace Deputy Locke. Our deepest heartfelt condolences to all of your family, friends, and brothers and sisters at Hardin County Sheriff's Department.

Postal Inspector Scott Horne
US Postal Inspection Service

October 15, 2021

Rest in Peace Deputy Locke. May the Lord grant your family, friends and co-workers peace during this very difficult time. Thank you for your service and sacrifice.

Deputy Parole Administrator Howard Wykes
Arizona Department of Juvenile Corrections

October 14, 2021

Rest In Peace Brother.

Det. Andreoli
NYPD-Retired

October 6, 2021

I feel how weak and fruitless must be any word of mine which should attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. But I cannot refrain from tendering you the consolation that may be found in the thanks of the Republic they died to save. I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.

Yours, very sincerely and respectfully,

Abraham Lincoln

Captain E.Kemmer
Nevada Department of Public Safety

October 6, 2021

The National Police Wives Association would like to extend their heartfelt prayers to the family of Deputy Locke and the Hardin County Sheriff's Department during this time. Thank you, Deputy Locke, for your service.

National Police Wives Association

October 6, 2021

Requiescat in Paces

Sergeants Mike O'Connor
Branford CT PD

October 6, 2021

James P Waggle, Jr.
Civilian

October 6, 2021

So sad to hear the news.

May you rest in peace after having served those around you. My thoughts are with you, your family, fellow officers, and friends.

Reserve Police Officer G. Krystof
Los Angeles Police Department

October 4, 2021

Another "Hero" taken.
You helped make this world a safer place to live.
May God grant you eternal peace.
Prayers to your loved ones and to your department.

Det. Billy Russo (Ret)
Nassau County Police Department, New York.

October 4, 2021

Rest in Peace Brother.

Arrend Hoopes
Spotsylvania Sheriff's Office Va.

October 4, 2021

Praying for peace and comfort today and in the days ahead. With deepest sympathy,

Rita Rocker
Deputy Executive Director
Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles

October 4, 2021

So sad & tragic, RIP. Well done thou good & faithful servant. May God bless and comfort your family, as well as your brothers & sisters with HCSD.

Mike Nixon
High Point, NC Police Dept, Retired

October 4, 2021

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family, friends and co-workers during this difficult time. Your service and ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Thomas H. Kelly Jr.
Assistant Supervisory Air Marshal in Charge (ASAC)
New York Field Office
Federal Air Marshal Service

October 4, 2021

Rest in peace brother

Douglas J. Maykowski
Fraternal Order Of Police Central Macomb Lodge #187 Macomb County MI.

October 4, 2021

Condolences to the family, friends and fellow Officers from Blue Knights NC II

Frank Spears Chaplain
Blue Knights NC II

October 3, 2021

May Our Lord Have a Special Place in His Heavenly Home for this TRUE HERO, Deputy Sheriff, Matthew Locke.
My Deepest sympathies go out to his Family, and his Department.

Retired Chicago Police Officer Michael T
Chicago Police Department, 9th District

October 3, 2021