University of Maine Police Department, Maine
End of Watch Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Add to My HeroesChristopher M. Gardner
Detective Sergeant Chris Gardner died as the result of complications following surgery for an injury sustained during firearms qualifications.
He injured his Achilles tendon as he ran from a position of cover to a shooting position on October 26th, 2016. He underwent surgery the following week and then returned home to recover. He returned to the hospital on November 15th, 2016, complaining of shortness of breath and passed away a short time later.
Detective Sergeant Gardner had served with the University of Maine Police Department for 27 years. He had been assigned to the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency as a special agent for the last nine years of his career. He was survived by his parents, brother, and two sisters.
Bio
- Age 47
- Tour 27 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Training accident
- Incident Date Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Most Recent Reflection
View all 12 ReflectionsI'm so grateful for the kindness shown to me by Officer Gardner. He arrested me a few months before his passing, but he was incredibly understanding of my situation. He treated me with respect and even helped me post bail using my own money without accusing me of anything. I've completely changed my ways since then and I'm currently seeking a pardon. I was hoping to reach out to Officer Gardner for his support. He was a truly good person, unlike some other police officers I've encountered. It's a shame that the DEA lost such a great understanding individual.
Shana Boutot
Former arrestee
March 1, 2025
