Texas Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol along with multiple other Brown County law enforcement officers, firefighters and EMS escorted the body of Sergeant Karl Keesee home on Friday evening in a lighted procession.

At approximately 6:30 p.m., the hearse carrying the body was escorted into Early traveling on Hwy 183 S and turned down Early Blvd to Heartland Funeral Home where arrangements are pending.  Numerous vehicles from Texas Department of Public Safety, Brown County Sheriff’s Office, Early Police Department, Brownwood Police Department, Early Volunteer Fire Department, Brownwood Fire Department and Heart of Texas EMS were a part of the procession.

Keesee was killed in a one-vehicle accident late Thursday night near Goldthwaite.  Officials of Texas DPS stated that Keesee’s body had been sent to Austin for an autopsy, the results of which were also pending at this time.

According to DPS officials, Keesee joined DPS in 1990 and was stationed in Brownwood. He is the 217th DPS officer to die in the line of duty since 1837. Keesee leaves behind his wife Darla, two children and countless friends.

DPS officials stated, “The DPS family is deeply saddened by the loss of one of Texas’ finest, Sgt. Keesee. Our state has lost a great man and outstanding peace officer, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this very difficult time,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “During his more than 25 years of proudly serving this department and the people of Texas, Sgt. Keesee touched countless lives, and his selfless service and sacrifice will always be remembered.”