ROCKVILLE — A western Indiana community is mourning the sudden loss of a community hero after he died while battling a flu-like illness.
Rockville Police Department Officer Rodney Smith died unexpectedly Thursday morning.
Rockville's Police Chief said Smith was battling flu-like respiratory issues at the time of his death.
As of December 21, 7 Hoosiers have died from flu-related illnesses. It is unclear if Smith's death is directly flu-related, but with the season upon us health officials warn that taking precautions to stop the spread of germs is very important.
People with weakened immune systems are at even more risk than most.
Smith had been a member of the Rockville Police Department since 1988 and had served in a number of different roles.
Services for Smith are scheduled for Monday in Rockville and are open to the public.
