HAYS, Kan. — The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is leading an inquiry into a tragic overnight incident in Hays that left Hays Police Officer Cody Wolf dead in the line of duty. The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Zane Wickham, was later found dead inside his residence from what investigators believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The incident began just before midnight on Saturday, Sept. 27, when police received a report that a woman had fled a domestic violence situation in the 2000 block of E. 21st Street. She told officers her significant other, Wickham, rammed his truck into her vehicle as she tried to escape. She then sought refuge at a nearby home and called 911.
Around 1:55 a.m. Sunday, Hays Police officers, along with a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper, established a perimeter near Wickham’s residence in the 2200 block of Downing Avenue. A single gunshot was fired from inside the home, striking Officer Wolf.
Fellow officers attempted lifesaving measures, and Wolf was airlifted to a regional hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries just after 4 a.m.
Law enforcement agencies launched a standoff with Wickham, who had barricaded himself inside. Negotiators attempted contact while tactical units deployed gas munitions, window-breaching devices, and a drone. Officials confirmed that no officers discharged their weapons during the incident.
At approximately 6:15 a.m., tactical teams entered the residence and discovered Wickham deceased.
The KBI is continuing its investigation and will present findings to the Ellis County Attorney once the case concludes.
The City of Hays and surrounding law enforcement agencies are mourning Officer Wolf’s death and have extended condolences to his family, colleagues, and the community.
