North Richland Hills assistant police Chief Kevin Palmer dies after collapsing on duty

North Richland Hills assistant police Chief Kevin Palmer died Tuesday after he collapsed while on duty, the police department announced in a news release.

He collapsed while at the police station and was transported by the North Richland Hills Fire Department to a local hospital, but “went to be with the Lord surrounded by his family and those who cared deeply for him,” the release states.

An Air Force veteran, Palmer started at the North Richland Hills Police Department as an officer in February 2004. He was promoted to sergeant in 2012, lieutenant in 2018, captain in 2020, and assistant police chief in July 2023.

As assistant police chief, he oversaw the patrol, traffic, SWAT, and criminal investigations departments,.

He received over 40 police awards, the release says and graduated from both the Senior Management Institute of Police and 283rd session of the FBI National Academy in 2021.

“Assistant Chief Kevin Palmer was such an integral person within our police department family it will be hard to think about him not being a part of our leadership team,” said police Chief Mike Young. “Kevin was a truly incredible person in every part of his life and our department greatly mourns his loss.”

“Kevin will be remembered with fondness, respect and gratitude for his service and contributions to our community,” said North Richland Hills Mayor Oscar Trevino. “Throughout his career, he was recognized with numerous awards and commendations. He was a dedicated servant leader and cherished member of our community and Police Department who will be terribly missed.”

Palmer leaves behind his wife and two sons. Funeral arrangements are pending.

Mayor Trevino directed that the flags at city facilities be lowered until the day of interment.