Ohio State Highway Patrol Sgt. Matthew Cook Dies – Investigation Underway

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The Ohio State Highway Patrol recognized the death of Sgt. Matthew Cook on Thursday, extending thoughts to Cook’s family, the Findlay District and Patrol as a whole.

DEFIANCE, Ohio — The Ohio State Highway Patrol is mourning the loss of a member of the Defiance Post.

On social media Thursday, OSHP recognized the off-duty death of Defiance Post Sgt. Matthew Cook.

“Our thoughts are with Sergeant Cook’s family, the Findlay District and the Patrol family as a whole,” OSHP said.

Cook joined the patrol in 2014 and was a decorated member of OSHP. He was named Findlay Post Trooper of the Year multiple times, and received other awards from the patrol, including the Criminal Patrol Award.

According to a social media post from OSHP, Cook was promoted to sergeant in 2024.

State Rep. Haraz Ghanbari posted his condolences on social media, sharing photos from a July 2022 ride-along with Cook and describing him as a friend. “My family’s thoughts and prayers are with Sergeant Cook’s family, the Findlay District and the Patrol family as a whole,” Ghanbari said.

In a Facebook post, Findlay Mayor Christina Muryn said “My heart is heavy.”

Cook died Wednesday evening at home, Hancock County Sheriff Michael Cortez said in a news release. Cook’s death is under investigation, but preliminary findings indicate Cook’s cause of death was self-induced. At this time, no foul play is suspected and there is no threat to the public.

Hours later, Cook’s body was transported from Hancock County to Lucas County in a procession of lights from dozens of law enforcement and first responders, in a show of respect for his service.


The National 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential support for anyone in distress and resources for anyone who may need help. By dialing 988, you can be connected with a local crisis center 24/7 for help. You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org.

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The Ohio State Highway Patrol recognized the death of Sgt. Matthew Cook on Thursday, extending thoughts to Cook’s family, the Findlay District and Patrol as a whole.

DEFIANCE, Ohio — The Ohio State Highway Patrol is mourning the loss of a member of the Defiance Post.

On social media Thursday, OSHP recognized the off-duty death of Defiance Post Sgt. Matthew Cook.

“Our thoughts are with Sergeant Cook’s family, the Findlay District and the Patrol family as a whole,” OSHP said.

Cook joined the patrol in 2014 and was a decorated member of OSHP. He was named Findlay Post Trooper of the Year multiple times, and received other awards from the patrol, including the Criminal Patrol Award.

According to a social media post from OSHP, Cook was promoted to sergeant in 2024.


State Rep. Haraz Ghanbari posted his condolences on social media, sharing photos from a July 2022 ride-along with Cook and describing him as a friend. “My family’s thoughts and prayers are with Sergeant Cook’s family, the Findlay District and the Patrol family as a whole,” Ghanbari said.

In a Facebook post, Findlay Mayor Christina Muryn said “My heart is heavy.”

Cook died Wednesday evening at home, Hancock County Sheriff Michael Cortez said in a news release. Cook’s death is under investigation, but preliminary findings indicate Cook’s cause of death was self-induced. At this time, no foul play is suspected and there is no threat to the public.

Hours later, Cook’s body was transported from Hancock County to Lucas County in a procession of lights from dozens of law enforcement and first responders, in a show of respect for his service.


The National 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential support for anyone in distress and resources for anyone who may need help. By dialing 988, you can be connected with a local crisis center 24/7 for help. You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org.

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