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Sgt. Jordan Buckley: ‘Koontz sacrificed his life beside me’

KOKOMO, Ind. (WISH) – For the first time since Deputy Carl Koontz was shot and killed on Sunday, the officer who was with him spoke during a press conference.

Howard County Sheriff Department Sgt. Jordan Buckley opened by saying “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I stand before you today.”

He shared his thanks for the overwhelming support and encouragement that he received from his friends, family and even complete strangers. He also gave a special thanks to the law enforcement agencies that stepped up to help both families.

As he held back tears he said, “Let’s not forget who this is really about.” He said this is about Deputy Carl Koontz.

“After being released from the hospital, I walked into my home to my wife and kids… and Carl can’t,” Sgt. Buckley said.

Koontz died while serving while serving a warrant early Sunday morning. He leaves behind a wife, Cassie, and young son, Noah.

Buckley said “Koontz sacrificed his life besides me. This is why I stand here today.”

Buckley, 35, was also shot while serving the warrant with Koontz on Sunday. He was released from the hospital on Monday.

The Marion County Coroner’s Office said Koontz died from a single gunshot wound to the pelvis. The manner of death was ruled a homicide.

Indiana State Police said Monday that suspect, Evan Dorsey shot and killed himself. The Howard County Coroner’s Office says the preliminary autopsy report for Dorsey revealed a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

Arrangements for Koontz funeral were released on Tuesday.