Midland police officer killed; first responders, public line I-20 to pay tribute

MIDLAND, Texas — The Big Country paid tribute to a Midland police officer killed in the line of duty.

First responders and citizens lined up along I-20 to honor Nathan Heidelberg as the escort taking his body to Tarrant County passed through Sweetwater, Merkel and Abilene.

According to Midland police, Heidelberg was one of four officers who responded Monday night to a burglar alarm at a home.

Despite the "loud announcement of their presence," the homeowner thought his house was being broken into.

He fired multiple shots towards the flashlight being held by Heidelberg striking him above his protective vest.

According to News West 9, the homeowner, David Wilson, has been charged with manslaughter.

Wilson's bond was set at $75,000.

Heidelberg died early Tuesday morning. He joined Midland PD in December 2015.

Heidelberg 's body was transported to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office.

The Sweetwater Fire Department was on the Arizona bridge to honor him as they passed.

The Abilene Police Department, Abilene Fire Department and Texas Department of Public Safety helped with the escort.

The Abilene Fire Department had a truck on the FM 600 overpass. Police blocked off on ramps.

Merkel police officers and firefighters staged around mile marker 270 across from the church.