Kan. Police Chief Dies of Complications Weeks after Heart Attack

A Kansas police chief died from medical complications weeks after suffering a heart attack following a standoff in August.

Goodland Police Chief Frank Hayes Jr. passed away Aug. 30, KSNW-TV reports. According to the Officer Down Memorial Page, Hayes had been at a police standoff Aug. 16, and after the incident had ended, he left the scene and went to the emergency room.

That's when he suffered a double heart attack. Hayes underwent surgery, but he died two weeks later.

"Chief Hayes, known by the community as 'Frankie,' served our community with unwavering loyalty and devotion," the department said in a statement. "He was not only a dedicated law enforcement officer but also a trusted friend and mentor to many in the community. His tireless effort to ensure that our city was a safe place to live, work, and raise families, is a testament to his true character and integrity."

Hayes, 53, had initially served with the department from 2004 to 2007. He returned in 2017 and was appointed chief in September 2020.

Hayes is survived by his wife and four children.