Ryan Copeland - Police Officer - McFarland, Wisconsin

Ryan Copeland

Police Officer Ryan Copeland, age 33, of Janesville, Wisconsin, died in the line of duty on November 23, 2015, near Albion, Wisconsin.

Officer Copeland was a member of the McFarland Police Department. He had over 2 years of service. He was a K-9 Officer.

McFarland is a village about 10 miles southeast of Madison and has a population of just under 8,000.

At about 12:30 p.m., Ryan was beginning his shift and was on the way to pick up his police dog. He was travelling on a roadway near the town of Albion, when a pickup truck crossed the center line and struck Ryan's patrol car head-on.

Tragically, Ryan died at the scene. He was wearing his seat belt.

The pickup truck was being driven by a 25-year-old female Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources employee who received only minor injuries.

Ryan was a U.S. Army veteran and had 10 years of active duty service. He had been a Green Beret and had been deployed overseas on at least two occasions.

Ryan had earned his bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Excelsior College's

Michael, Patron Saint of the Police, pray for
Ryan and for those who have lost him.

online program this year.

The McFarland Police Department is in mourning over the death of their brother. Officials stated that Ryan was a hard working and dedicated professional. He was a man with a lot of drive and initiative. He was an asset to the Department. He will be forever remembered.

Ryan's loved ones are devastated over his sudden and tragic death. He did his best. He will be forever mourned.

Ryan is survived by many loving comrades, friends and family members including his wife, Amanda.

Thank you for your service to your country and to the community, Ryan. 

Pray for all who die in the line of duty.

Pray that Ryan is in Heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.