It was determined that Sgt. Richard Kelly died Aug. 10 from the combined toxic effects of Fentanyl and Methamphetamine

The Clark County Medical Examiner has determined that Battle Ground Police Sgt. Richard Kelly died from the combined toxic effects of Fentanyl and Methamphetamine. Sgt. Kelly was discovered unconscious in his office at the Battle Ground Police Department and was later pronounced deceased at a local hospital on August 10. To maintain transparency and an unbiased investigation, Battle Ground Police Chief Mike Fort immediately requested the assistance of the Vancouver Police Department to conduct an independent investigation into the matter. 

Detectives with the Vancouver Police Department have now completed their independent investigation of the physical evidence observed at the scene, a review of the Clark County Medical Examiner’s report,and the toxicology reports. They have concluded Sgt. Kelly’s death was “more likely than not caused by an intentional act and not an incidental workplace exposure.”

Kelly’s family was notified of the findings earlier this week after the investigative report was released October 18. 

Chief Fort said, “I want to thank the community and other law enforcement agencies once again for their compassionate support of the men and women of the Battle Ground Police Department as we grieved through the shock of this death.  Sgt. Kelly’s unexpected passing was a significant and traumatic event for his co-workers, family, and friends.”

In addition to the death investigation, Chief Fort ordered an independent audit of the Department’s property and evidence procedures, including how seized narcotics are handled. Appropriate training and procedural changes will be implemented based on the findings of the audit, and/or any additional administrative review.

“Substance abuse is a serious problem that often goes unsuspected and undetected,” Chief Fort acknowledged.  “As a community, we need to support local efforts to assist anyone struggling with the effects of mental health and substance abuse so they may achieve recovery.”

Information provided by city of Battle Ground.