HUTCHINSON, Kan. – While the team was in Wichita competing in the National Baseball Congress (NBC) World Series, the Hutchinson Monarchs baseball team heard the unfortunate news of Wyandotte County Sheriff Deputy Elijah Ming, a former player in the early years of the team’s existence.
Ming, 34, was killed in the line of duty Sat., July 26 after responding to a call from a woman asking for officers to accompany her for her safety while moving out of a residence, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). When they arrived, a suspect opened fire, striking Ming before barricading himself in the home. Ming was transported to a local hospital, but died from his injuries.
The native of Kansas City, Kan. went to FL Schlagle High School before playing collegiate baseball at Fort Scott Community College as a pitcher. In the 2011 season, Ming had a 2-0 record with a 4.50 ERA for the Greyhounds, who had a 42-18 record that season. Ming would then play for the Hutchinson Monarchs in the 2011 season. Following the 2011 year, Ming transferred to Wayne State College, an NCAA DII program in Wayne, Neb. to play baseball.
The Monarchs made the following statement on Facebook:
It comes with great sadness and heartbreak to say goodbye to a member of the Monarch family. Elijah Ming played for us in the early years. I remember his quiet confidence, desire to be in law enforcement, the way his smile lights up a room, a few dugout dances at the NBC tournament and his faith in God.
He will be greatly missed to all that knew & loved him. RIP
Fort Scott Community College also released the following statement on Facebook.:
Fort Scott Community College had the honor of watching you go from a young, baseball playing, Homecoming King to a wonderful example of integrity and a protector of the community. Rest in Peace, Officer Elijah Ming.
