By Bob Lassahn

The Worcester County Commissioners have been requested by the mother of deceased Deputy Sheriff Brian K. Heller to investigate the possibility of a police memorial for the county. Connie Widmann of Parsonsburg noted in her letter and presentation that memorials not only remember fallen heroes, but also assist in the healing process for survivors and establish a bond with the greater community.

Ms. Widmann's son, Worcester County Deputy Sheriff Brian K. Heller was killed on June 14, 2000 in a single vehicle accident while responding to a call to assist a fellow officer confronted by a mental patient believed to be armed. While traveling south on Route 113 his police cruiser went out of control, left the roadway and struck a stand of trees. He was transported to a hospital and succumbed to his injuries a short time later.

Deputy Heller was 35 years old and a veteran of 13 years in law enforcement, four of them with the Worcester County Sheriff's Office, at the time of his death. He is survived by a wife and two daughters. He represents the only recorded line of duty death of a law enforcement officer in Worcester County history.

Worcester County already has memorials dedicated to veterans of the armed forces and firefighters, but has not yet established a memorial to law enforcement. The commissioners were receptive to the suggestion and pledged to establish a committee to investigate potential sites.

Ms. Widmann pledged $1,000 of her own money to establish a fund where the county might accept donations from the community. She also expressed hope that the county might see fit to match her donation.