Covington Police Lt. Wade Sharp gives his life for his daughters in tornado.

[MikeG]

News : Covington officer killed in Mississippi storm : St. Tammany, LA

Heroism was nothing new for Covington Police Lt. Wade Sharp. On at least two occasions, he placed his own life in jeopardy to save another, the latest being in 2006.

Tuesday night, Sharp’s heroism saved his daughter’s life, but cost him his own.

Camping with his young daughter in Mississippi, a tornado ripped through the campsite, knocking a tree toward the pair, said Chief Richard Palmisano. He leapt on top of her to protect her from the falling tree, sparing her life but giving his own in return.

A decorated member of the CPD, Sharp’s unexpected death will leave a hole hard to fill. Palmisano said, “Everyone always wanted to work with him. He was a joy to be around. He was an excellent, fantastic officer, well-liked. I never heard anything against him.”

Sharp had been with the force 19 years. He is survived by his wife, two daughters and a son. Sgt. Stephen Culotta of the CPD is Sharp’s stepbrother.

Both men were known as heroes of the department, having earned several awards.

Sharp received the Medal of Valor for his actions, the highest honor the CPD bestows, for risking his life, entering a burning home to rescue a man overcome by smoke. Even though he was suffering from the smoke because he had no fire equipment, he re-entered the residence and carried the man to the window. Two lives were saved because of his bravery. He also received the Chief Citation seven times, the Top Cop award and was rated as a marksman.

[sparrow803]

News : Covington officer killed in Mississippi storm : St. Tammany, LA

My heart goes out to his family, co-workers and the entire community. What a tragic loss.