By Mitch Borden
Midland Police Officer Nathan “Hayden” Heidelberg, who was killed in the line of duty earlier this week, will be laid to rest Friday.
The service will be held Friday afternoon followed by a procession through the cemetery where he'll be buried. Heidelberg was 28 years old, and is survived by his parents.
Events surrounding Heidelberg’s death are still coming to light, but here is what is known at the moment:
The Midland County District Attorney is charging David Charles Wilson with 2nd-degree manslaughter for shooting and killing officer Heidelberg on Tuesday, March 5th.
According to the arrest affidavit, around 1:15 am, officer Heidelberg and another officer were responding to a panic alarm at Wilson's home. The two officers assessed the scene, but didn’t find anything suspicious, according to the affidavit. After walking around the property, the affidavit states the officers "noticed that the front door to the residence was unsecure."
Around this time, two more officers arrived. Heidelberg was near Wilson’s front door and, according to the affidavit, officers “clearly” announced their presences. Shortly after, a shot rang out and Heidelberg was then found lying face down. First aid was performed and Heidelberg was taken to Midland Memorial Hospital. He died around 2:30 am.
Wilson, the homeowner, admitted to firing a weapon toward Heidelberg while inside his residence. He was eventually arrested and charged with recklessly causing the Heidelberg's death. He was released on $75,000 bond, according to the Odessa American.
Heidelberg had served on the Midland Police Force for five years and was currently working as a Field Training Officer. He was a graduate of Sul Ross University in Alpine, Texas and earned a degree in biology. But later chose to pursue a career in law enforcement.
Heidelberg’s cruiser has been on display outside of the Midland Police Department for mourners. All U.S. Flags will be flown at half-mast at city buildings until late Friday after Heidelberg’s funeral.
The funeral is closed to the public, but a viewing will be open to anyone wishing to pay their respects from 10 am to 1 pm at the First Baptist Church of Midland.
A procession will be held after funeral services finish as Heidelberg is transported from the First Baptist Church of Midland a to his final resting place.
