In Memory of Sergeant David G. Crumpler

Georgia Officer Dies from COVID19

On Thursday, January 7, 2021, Sergeant David G. Crumpler, age 60, died from complications arising from acquiring COVID19. The coronavirus pandemic has taken the lives of hundreds of thousands in the United States. A large portion of these lost lives come from first responders, law enforcement, and essential workers. In 2020, there were more LODD deaths than at any other time.

Sgt. Crumpler served his community for more than 26 years as a Henry County Police Officer. He was well-loved by the community, always greeting residents with a friendly smile or a funny joke.

Crumpler had retired once from the Henry County Police Department. However, he couldn’t stay away. Sgt. Crumpler loved serving the residents of the community and helping others. He came back to train other officers as a part-time training instructor. Fellow officers knew him to be serious on the job but always ready to crack a joke.

After feeling ill, Sgt. Crumpler was being treated at Emory University Hospital, Midtown. He spent over a week on a ventilator before he succumbed to the illness. He is one of three Henry County officers to die in one week.

Henry County Police Department

Sgt. David Crumpler served with the Henry County Police Department. Located in the southeastern Atlanta metropolitan area, the department has been experiencing rapid growth. HCPD employs approximately 247 sworn officers. These officers are supported by 12 sworn reserve officers and 47 civilian employees. The HCPD also provides for the local students’ protection and safety with 32 part-time school crossing guards.

The members of the HCPD provide safety and security to all of Henry County, which includes approximately 235,000 residents. Officers patrol and protect an area of 322.7 square miles. The officers show a dedication to community policing. They look to provide effective crime control, improve the quality of life for all residents, all while enhancing the public view of police legitimacy.

Remembrances

Families have been hurt all over from the pandemic. Every lost life impacts all those loved ones left to go on with their lives. It has taken efforts from entire communities to lift and support families most impacted by the virus. Sergeant David G. Crumpler leaves behind his four children, grandchild, mother, and brother. The residents and law enforcement officers from all around the area came forward to show their respect and gratitude as Crumpler was escorted to his final resting place.

The Henry County Police Department posted their best memory of Sgt. Crumpler to give insight into his personality. “Rest easy, Sergeant. One of the last things you said to me was, ‘That photo better not end up on the Facebook…’ But I feel like Henry County needs to know who you really were. A gentleman, a teacher, and a sprinkle-loving, joy-filled servant. And seriously, “servant” is a great word for David. He greeted every single citizen with so much respect that it was obvious he was there to serve and protect. Going out to eat with him was a long endeavor because he’d hold the door open for EVERYONE going ‘ma’am, sir, ma’am, sir.’ Have fun going over the security plan with the angels at the gate, sir.”

Bruce Wilson, a good friend of Sgt. Crumpler’s, wrote a touching goodbye on his Facebook page. “Our friend David Crumpler passed away today at Emory Hospital. David has been in a medically induced coma and on a ventilator for over a week. I have enjoyed his friendship for many years and have shared many, many miles with him by my side. Everyone needs to take COVID seriously and do the right thing to protect yourself and those around you. David was fit, strong, and full of life. We will miss him, but we will never forget him.”