FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2, 2021

For press inquiries only, contact:
Mike Lewis (334) 353-2199
Joy Patterson (334) 242-7491

Attorney General Steve Marshall Statement on Fallen Sheffield Police Sergeant James Nicholas Risner

(MONTGOMERY) – Attorney General Steve Marshall released the following statement on the death of Sergeant James Nicholas “Nick” Risner of the Sheffield Police Department.

“We mourn the loss of Sergeant Nick Risner, a hero who was senselessly struck down in the line of duty,” said Attorney General Marshall. “Responding to a report of a victim in a roadway Friday afternoon in Muscle Shoals, Sergeant Risner was met by hostile gunfire during the ensuing chase of the suspect. Sergeant Risner suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was taken to Huntsville Hospital, where today he tragically succumbed to the injuries he sustained.

“We often take for granted the safety of our neighborhoods and communities while – every minute of every day – heroes sworn to protect and serve us venture into harm’s way. Sergeant Risner was such a hero. We live our lives in security because of the bravery and commitment of men like Sergeant Risner who vigilantly stand guard against evil. We can never repay their sacrifice. Please pray for Sergeant Risner’s family, friends, and fellow officers.”

Sergeant Risner, age 40, served nine years with the Sheffield Police Department where he was a K-9 officer. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserve for eight years. He is the second Alabama police officer to fall to hostile gunfire this year and the third officer to be shot in the line of duty in less than 24 hours this week.

Sergeant Risner is survived by his parents and a daughter.

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