Nicholasville police department honors the life and legacy of fallen officer 10 years later
NICHOLASVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56) — A decade ago, the Nicholasville Police Department faced the tragic death of fellow officer Burke Rhoads. All these years later, the team hasn't forgotten.
Nicholasville police joined other first responders at the police headquarters to honor the life of Officer Burke Rhoads, who passed away on March 11, 2015. The Nicholasville Police Department knew Officer Rhoads well, but Melissa Mason had the chance to call him husband. She and the family came out to join the department to honor the fallen hero.
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'Today means honor, remembrance, and celebration. Celebration of life, celebration of this department, and celebration of his legacy,' Mason said.
Officer Rhoads was known for his passion for fitness, something that will live on through the department's fitness center dedicated to him. With badge number 574 presented proudly, friends and family say it's like he never left.
'It was wonderful to see the kids and their expressions. Being able to see them in the fitness center knowing that was their dad and his legacy that he has left for them has been heartwarming,' Mason said.
More than just his drive to stay fit and healthy, fellow officers like NPD public information officer Sam Wade said he'll also miss his guidance and leadership.
'He never hesitated to double-check what was being done to make sure the right things were being done. I called him our perfect north, our compass arrow, because he was just always making sure the right thing was being done at the right time,' Wade said.
Year after year, the department still feels this loss. At the same time, they say they feel the positive impact he left on the community every day they serve. Something his wife and children would agree.
Nicholasville police department honors the life and legacy of fallen officer 10 years later
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'He did so much good for so many people and served with his whole heart. That spirit lives on in his children, as they've all served their communities and their country,' Mason said.
In memory of Officer Rhoads, the Nicholasville Police Department started the Burke 5.74K, a run honoring his badge number 574. This run will be on May 3. More information on the 5.74K can be found here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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