In Memory of Police Chief Donald Hall

North Carolina officials briefed residents and reporters about the loss of a local police chief who died in the line of duty due to COVID19. The virus has quickly become the top cause of line of duty deaths for all law enforcement across the country. Certain occupations, like first responders, have a significantly higher risk of contracting the disease. These jobs require close contact with many in the public and little ability to socially distance.

On Sunday, September 26, 2021, Police Chief Donald Hall, badge number 701, died due to complications of contracting the virus on the job. His death is deemed to be a line of duty death. Federal mandates were put into place to protect the financial resources of law enforcement families who continued to defend their communities during this pandemic. If an active-duty officer dies from the virus, full benefits are paid to their loved ones. Police Chief Donald Hall was 50 years old.

Hall had served as a law enforcement officer for more than 25 years. He served with the Magnolia Police Department for 12 years. At the time of his death, Hall was the Chief of that department. Hall previously served with the Warsaw Police Department and the Duplin Sheriffs office for a combined 13 years.

Magnolia Police Department, North Carolina

For the city of Magnolia, the loss of their Police Chief creates a significant impact on its small police department. The number of officers that worked for the agency had been 3, plus the Chief, Donald Hall. The City of Magnolia is a small community in Duplin County, North Carolina. The police agency works with other local law enforcement agencies to provide all the services needed to the small community.

The city of Magnolia was reported to have 952 residents during the last census. Police with the Magnolia Police Department work with other surrounding agencies, but their jurisdiction is just one square mile.

Remembrances

Police Chief Donald Hall leaves behind his three children. Unfortunately, the Hall family had joined hundreds of thousands of families who have lost a loved one due to the current coronavirus pandemic. Tomorrow is uncertain for many families, and communities will need to address the needs of their neighbors through support groups and programs to ensure a positive future for everyone. Hall had the local Honor Guards provide for the funeral to show the gratitude of the entire community for the many years of service.

The Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department shared their sympathies for the fallen Chief online. “Our utmost and sincere condolences to the family and friends of police Chief Donald Hall. A true servant to the Town of Magnolia and the entire community. Chief Hall, thank you for your dedicated service for over a decade to the Town of Magnolia. Chief, rest in peace; we got it from here. Rest in peace, Magnolia 701”.

Terry Francis Zech of the Veteran’s Administration shared condolences with the Hall family. “Rest in peace, Chief Hall; my sincere condolences to your family and your departments. God speed as you now patrol the streets of gold. Your ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. Thank you for your dedication and service”.