August 17, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Police Department sign – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Saratoga Police Chief provided little information about the circumstances surrounding the shooting death of one of his officer’s when discussing the matter at this week’s town council meeting.
Officer Glen Casner apparently shot himself late Saturday night or early Sunday morning. Chief Mike Morris refused to talk to the media Monday or Tuesday, stating that he would make a statement during the council meeting.
Meanwhile on Sunday, reports circulated through the town concerning a suicide that had taken place outside town. Throughout the day, multiple sources informed Bigfoot99 that Saratoga Police Officer Glen Casner took his own life Sunday morning. One source stated that an early request for an ambulance was declined by the police department.
On Monday, Bigfoot99 asked Chief Mike Morris for a statement. Morris said he would issue a press release when he was able.
Emotions ran high at Tuesday evening’s Saratoga town council meeting. Town officials fought back tears as Chief Morris read a prepared statement.
In the chief’s announcement, he said Officer Glen Casner’s sudden death was most likely caused by his own hand.
Chief Morris said the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation looked into the death and concluded that no criminal activity was involved. Officer Casner was 41. He leaves behind a wife and six children.
Chief Morris asked people to respect the privacy of the Casner family and their friends.
The police chief said a memorial service for Officer Casner will be held this Saturday, August 19th, at the Platte Valley Community Center. The event begins at 11:00am. An emotional Chief Morris said donations can be made to the Casner family through a GoFundMe account.
A link to the GoFundMe page has been shared on the Town of Saratoga Facebook page. Chief Morris said he has personally shared the link and will post it on the Saratoga Police Department Facebook as well.
Chief Morris said out of respect for the family, he will not take any questions or make further comments.
Officer Glen Casner’s Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, August 19th at 11:00. The event will be held in the Platte Valley Community Center gymnasium, located at 210 West Elm Avenue.
The link to the Casner family GoFundMe page will be included in this story when it is posted to the Bigfoot99 website.
Fundraiser for Caitlin Casner by Ashleigh Witherite : Support the Casner family (gofundme.com)
