PARSONS, Kan. (KSNW) — Kansas is mourning the loss of a police officer killed in the line of duty.

Kansas City, Kansas, Police Officer Hunter Simoncic, 26, died after being run over by a suspect attempting to evade tire-deflating devices. His death marks the second time in a month that a Kansas law enforcement officer has been killed on the job.

For many in his hometown of Parsons, the loss feels deeply personal. Elizabeth Merrell, who taught Simoncic in kindergarten, said she remembers his kindness and determination long before he wore a badge.

“He talked about how he could change the world,” Merrell said. “I just have strong memories of him being so happy.”

Merrell said she struggled to process the news of his death.

“I really just could not function the rest of the day because it w

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