LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge issued a statement following the announcement Independence County Sheriff’s Deputy Frank Ramirez died in the line of duty early Thursday morning.

“My heart and prayers are with Deputy Frank Ramirez’s wife, two young children, his family, friends, and his brothers and sisters in blue following the tragic accident that took his life early this morning,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Deputy Ramirez will always be remembered for his steadfast commitment and dedication to serve and protect his community, and I ask the entire state of Arkansas to join with me in prayer for Deputy Ramirez’s family, the Independence County Sheriff’s Department, and all of my home folks in Independence County.”