Cadiz Police Chief Remembers Fallen Friend

03-30-18-hpd-officer-meacham-cruiser-3-e1522425773485

As the community of Hopkinsville-Christian County processes the fatal shooting of a city police officer Thursday evening, a fellow member of the thin blue line in Cadiz recalls his friendship with the slain. Cadiz Police Chief Chad Grace says he knew 38-year-old Phillip Meacham from their days playing little league baseball and began their careers in law enforcement together.

right-click to download mp3
Officers say the suspect, 35-year-old James Decoursey, apparently pretended to be a police officer when he pulled over Meacham, who was off duty and in his personal vehicle. Officials say Meacham was shot just after 5 p.m. on Paulette Court in Hopkinsville, after which he was taken to Jennie Stuart Medical Center where he died of his injuries.

A manhunt ensued and ended when Decoursey was fatally shot around midnight on Wilma Rudolph Boulevard in Clarksville, according to police.Grace describes his friend, Meacham, as having been laidback, easy going, and a good guy. He says that while they didn’t see each other every day, when they did run into each other they could pick up from where they left off.

right-click to download mp3
Grace adds that his department has offered to lend a helping hand in Hopkinsville to help ensure all fellow officers have the opportunity to attend Meacham’s funeral, arrangements for which are incomplete at this time. Grace says his thoughts and prayers are with Meacham’s family.

right-click to download mp3
And while questions surrounding the shooting remain, Grace says law enforcement will do what they have to in order to take care of Meacham and his loved ones.