LEE COUNTY, Mississippi — A hush fell over this tight‑knit community Monday afternoon as news spread that Deputy Rick Haggard, 52, a beloved school resource officer, had died after being struck near Shannon School while on duty. The tragedy happened just after 3:05 p.m. in front of the school, where Haggard had spent years building trust with students, teachers and families.
Friends and co‑workers described Haggard as the kind of officer who didn’t just enforce rules — he connected with the people he served. At Shannon School, he wasn’t just “Officer Rick,” he was a gentle voice in the hallways, someone students greeted with smiles and waves. Photos and videos shared by locals showed kids cheering and saying “Thank you, Officer Rick,” moments that now stand as poignant reminders of his impact.
In a somber press briefing, Sheriff Jim Johnson called Haggard’s death a heartbreaking loss for the sheriff’s office and for Lee County. The Mississippi Highway Patrol is taking the lead in investigating what officials so far have only described as a fatal accident. No further details about how it unfolded were released Monday.
Haggard wasn’t just a cop; he was a steady presence in a world where adult figures can make all the difference. Parents said he greeted kids in the morning, listened when they needed to talk, and took extra time to build relationships. Teachers remember him for his calm approach and patience, traits that helped students feel safer and seen.
For many in Lee County, Haggard represented the best of public service. He stood not at a distance in a uniform, but in classrooms and playgrounds, talking about safety, respect and community. Superintendent Coke Magee stood with Sheriff Johnson during the announcement, asking the public to keep Haggard’s family and colleagues in their thoughts and prayers.
Across town, parents and students shared stories of Haggard’s kindness — from simple waves in the hall to meaningful conversations about bullying and looking out for one another. Those memories now help soften the shock of a life cut too soon, echoing in classrooms that once cheered for him.
As the investigation continues, friends say the legacy of Deputy Rick Haggard will live on in the hearts of those he protected. In a community still grappling with loss, his gentle presence and steady commitment to children’s wellbeing won’t be forgotten.
