HURRICANE – Hurricane City Police lost one of their own on Tuesday when Lt. Shayne Copeland, head of investigations at the Hurricane City Police Department, passed away from natural causes at Dixie Regional Medical Center.

Hurricane Police issued the following statement concerning Copeland’s passing:

Shayne’s passing leaves a massive void in the Hurricane Police Department that cannot adequately be expressed by those who worked closest with him.

“Shayne was an incredible officer and great friend,” Hurricane Police Chief Lynn Excell said. “He worked tirelessly for the benefit of his community and leaves behind a grateful law enforcement family. He was not only a wonderful coworker, but a true friend.”

Copeland began his 22-year career with the Hurricane Police Department in 1990. He never wavered in his commitment to making Hurricane City a safer place for every resident. His dedication to law enforcement and desire to seek justice for every victim meant many long hours away from family. He mentored young people and shared his sense of humor with those around him. Copeland was a strong advocate of the goodness of people and never failed to do all he could to help make Hurricane City a great place to live.

“Shayne’s passing is a great loss not only for our department but for the entire community. Our thoughts and prayers are with Shayne’s family at this time,” Excell said.

Copeland was 51 years old, and leaves behind a wife and two children.

From friends

After St. George News reported Copeland’s passing on its Facebook page, individuals who knew him began to reply with their sympathies.

Ed Kociela, St. George News columnist and longstanding Southern Utah journalist, wrote, “Lt. Copeland was one of the good guys. He will be missed. My condolences to his family.”

“He was a real police officer, a great friend, and a real gentleman,” wrote Gary Stubbs. “He’ll be sorely missed by the entire Stubbs family.”

Janice Evans, assistant to the city prosecutor of Hurricane City, posted:  “His presence will most definitely be missed in our office. (Wednesday) was a difficult day. Just passing down the hallway and seeing his door made the tears flow again and again. He was a great man, a wonderful police officer and a stellar friend.”

“One of the Greats – great man, great friend! He will be missed!” wrote Desiree Curtis

Service information

The following services will take place at the Hurricane Stake Center 650 S 700 West in Hurricane.

• Viewing Sunday August 5, 2012 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Funeral Monday August 6, 2012 at 11 a.m., with a viewing starting at 9:30 a.m.