Police Week 2022 Day 6
Today we honor the service, sacrifice, and memory of Panola County Constable Raye Hawkins. EOW: December 12, 2019
December 12, 2019 was a sunny winter day in Batesville, Ms. Constable Raye Hawkins was going about his day. He had just picked up some papers that needed serving when he heard over his radio of a pursuit heading into Panola County from Tallahatchie County. Tallahatchie Sheriff's Office was attempting to stop two subjects in a stolen vehicle.
Constable Hawkins, ever being the Law Man he was, headed towards the direction of the pursuit. Constable Hawkins was an Icon in Panola County Law Enforcement. He served many years on the Batesville Police Department and then was elected Constable for District 2. If you knew Raye, you knew a friend. He was always carrying on something with everyone he met. If you didn't know him, you certainly did after you met him. You were not a stranger anymore, you were a friend.
Constable Hawkins made his way to Highway 35 South to fill in the gap and help wherever he was needed. He parked his cruiser facing the direction of the pursuit and sat waiting to take action.
As the stolen vehicle approached his location at a high rate of speed, it attempted to make a left hand turn onto the side road that Constable Hawkins was sitting by. As the vehicle attempted to turn, it struck the cruiser with Constable Hawkins inside. Constable Hawkins died from injuries sustained in the crash.
The two juvenile subjects were apprehended after a short foot chase. They were both charged as adults and are serving time at the Ms. State Penitentiary.
Constable Hawkins died answering the call that all Cops hear and answer. He heard the call and he responded.
Panola County suffered a great loss in the death of Constable Hawkins. He will never be forgotten and his legacy lives on in his son, Captain Wesley Hawkins of the Batesville Police Department.
Fly High, Raye. You are missed!
#PCSO #policeweek2022 #HeroesLiveForever
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up