In Memory of Captain David Edwin MacAlpine

September 17, 2021 | 3 minutes read

North Carolina was sad to hear the news that they had lost yet another officer this month to the coronavirus pandemic. On Friday, September 17, 2021, Captain David Edwin MacAlpine, badge number Unit 8, with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, died due to complications from COVID19. MacAlpine likely contracted the virus through the course of his duties as a law enforcement officer. All law enforcement officers who die from the virus are considered line of duty deaths so their families can collect full benefits to help them financially with their future.

Captain David “Mac” MacAlpine was assigned to a checkpoint at NC17 and the South Carolina state line. He had served as a law enforcement officer for more than 30 years. For the entire 30 years, he was a member of the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. Mac began his service early when he graduated high school; he signed up to serve in the military. He is a US Marine Corps Veteran.

New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina

MacAlpine served with the NHCSO. The NHCSO is the primary law enforcement in New Hanover County, North Carolina. Deputies serve more than 200,000 people within the county’s 185 square miles. The department is responsible for courtroom security providing all civil processes within the county. In addition, deputies provide transportation to prisoners to court and medical services.

The Mission Statement of the NHCSO: “To serve and protect the citizens of New Hanover County with integrity and enforce the laws of North Carolina and the United States of America.” Officers with the department provide many community services, protect residents and volunteer to help those who need it the most.

Remembrances

Captain David Edwin McAlpine leaves behind his wife, son, two daughters, two granddaughters, and mother. However, the many years he has given to the community will be returned as residents, and law enforcement officers, including the honor guard, come together to celebrate his life and show gratitude for the sacrifice he made on their behalf.

There is hope for the future of this family and the children of officer MacAlpine. However, it will take the support of the community, residents, family, and friends to ensure that they are able to achieve the dreams tomorrow that they have had today. The support for their goals will be essential so that the entire country can heal from the losses suffered from the pandemic.

Sheriff Ed McMahon shared his grief and sadness over the loss of a friend and deputy. “Words cannot express the devastation and heartache that we feel today due to the loss of one of our own. David “Mac” MacAlpine was not only an amazing public servant but also a friend and loved member of our family. His hugs, his smile, his laugh, and his dedication to the Sheriff’s Office and this community will be missed by everyone. We love you, Mac; our hearts are truly broken.”

The International Association of Chiefs of Police shared the loss with others on their Twitter page. “Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and @NewHanoverSO colleagues of Captain David Edwin MacAlpine, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina.”