Eighteen years ago today- JPD Officer Tim Nielson died in the line of duty

(From the Joplin Police Department)

Gone but not forgotten! 

Eighteen years ago, Officer Tim Nielson and Officer Greg Batson responded to a call of a suicidal subject. When the officers arrived, they located the man in the backyard, but he suddenly ran into the house. The officers followed him into the house and were inside for several minutes when the house exploded.

Patrolman Nielson sustained burns to 45 percent of his body and was partially trapped in the wreckage of the home. 

Officer Nielson later succumbed to his injuries and passed away on September 13th, 2004. Officer Batson sustained burns to 30 percent of his body and remained in critical condition for several weeks before eventually returning to full duty.

The ensuing investigation revealed that, prior to the arrival of the officers, the suspect had disconnected the natural gas line from his stove and turned the valve on to its highest setting. The house filled with gas while the man was outside. 

After the officers chased the man into the home, one of the officers fired a taser at the man. The spark from the taser may have caused the gas to ignite, resulting in the explosion.

Today we remember Officer Nielson and the heroism and sacrifice he made!