Nearly an hour after the pursuit, Heitman suffered a medical emergency back at the sheriff's office. Fellow deputies and Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers quickly began rendering aid to Heitman until medics arrived and rushed him to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. 

Heitman had served with the sheriff's office since 2022 and had been with the Kiefer Police Department for two years before that. He also served four years in the Marines.

While with the sheriff's office, Heitman served as a patrol deputy before becoming a K-9 handler. He was awarded the Sheriff’s Life Saving Award after saving an overdose victim.

"Deputy Heitman exemplified courage, service, and dedication to others," the sheriff's office stated. "He served his community, his fellow deputies, and his country with honor. His loss is immeasurable, and he will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of serving alongside him."

Heitman is survived by his wife and two daughters.