North Carolina Officer Dies at End of Shift

JEFFERSON, N.C. --

A patrolman from Ashe County died at the end of his shift this weekend, according to sheriff's office director of communications.

Patrolman Thomas "Tommy" Andrew Beamer died at the end of his shift on Saturday. He was 40. His cause of death has not yet been released.

Beamer served as a patrolman with the West Jefferson Police Department and a part-time telecommunicator with the Ashe County Communications Center.

He began his career by joining the WJPD on Oct. 11, 1996.

"Beamer was an asset and an inspiration to the departments and the communities he served," said Director of Communications Kevin Hardy.

Beamer also has served as a volunteer member of the Surry County Rescue Squad and the Warrensville Volunteer Fire Department.

He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Lewis Beamer, one daughter, Alexis, and a son, Hayden, of the home; his mother, Mary Vance Beamer, of Mt. Airy; two brothers, Bryan Beamer, of Mt. Airy and Larry Beamer, of Bedford, Va; a sister, Kim Midkiff, of Black Mountain; and five nieces also survive.

Funeral services for Beamer are incomplete and are being handled by Boone Family Funeral Home in West Jefferson. Information may be obtained at boonefuneralhome.com or by calling 336-846-7979.

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