Abington Cop Brian Rickards Passes Away After Battle With ALS

ABINGTON, PA — Abington Police Officer Brian Rickards, whose long and valorous fight with illness galvanized and inspired the local community, has passed away.

Rickards suffered from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. He was diagnosed in February 2017. Since then, he's fought to live as normal a life as possible between treatments. Support from across the community has poured in. The support which Rickards inspired is evident in the GoFundMe page launched nearly a year and a half ago, which has since raised more than $32,000 for medical costs from nearly 200 donors.

Rickards served in the Abington Police Department for 19 years prior to his diagnosis, working with the K-9 Unit alongside his partner dog, Ivan. The pair excelled and earned commendations in narcotics detection and patrol operations. Rickards also worked as a K-9 SWAT officers, field training officer, emergency vehicle operation instructor, firearms instructor, and more during his lengthy career.

An announcement was posted to the Lower Merion FOP Lodge 28 Facebook page late Tuesday morning:

"It is with deep sorry that we announce the passing of Abington Police Officer Brian Rickards from his battle with ALS. Brian was a K9 Officer, EVOC Instructor and all around GREAT person. Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family, the Abington Police Department and all who were privileged to know Brian."

Rickards leaves behind his wife and three young children.

Donations can be made to his family via the GoFundMe page or the Abington Township Police Assocation (A.T.P.A.), PO Box 211, Abington, PA 19001.

Image via GoFundMe