Police Officer Robert Buckman, Macksville Police Department, Kansas

Police Officer Robert Buckman

Macksville Police Department, Kansas

End of Watch Tuesday, May 8, 2007

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Robert Buckman

Police Officer Robert "Tim" Buckman succumbed to injuries sustained five days earlier when his vehicle was caught in a massive tornado as he responded to rural portions of Stafford County, Kansas, to warn residents of approaching tornadoes.

While on U.S. Highway 50 east of Macksville, a tornado swept up his squad car and flung it 300 yards into a field.

Officer Buckman was taken to a hospital in Wichita, where he remained in critical condition until succumbing to his injuries. In his final act of service, his organs were donated.

The tornado was classified as an enhanced F5, the most powerful level, and it stretched 1.7 miles wide with wind speeds near 205 mph. Ninety-five percent of the town of Greensburg was destroyed by the tornado, which killed nine civilians.

Officer Buckman had served with the Macksville Police Department for five years. He is survived by his wife, three sons, two daughters, two sisters, six grandchildren, and parents.

Bio

Age 46
Tour 5 years
Badge 113

Incident Details

Cause Weather/Natural disaster
Incident Date Friday, May 4, 2007

emergency response, Organ Donor, patrol, weather

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Hi papa. I know this is not what people normally write on here, but I never got to speak to you so I figure this is the best way! I’m 17 now. Almost 18. That means in two months it’ll be 18 years without you. Basically my whole life except 2 months of it. You were supposed to see me grow up. My mama is the best mom in the whole world and I know you’d be so proud of her. She married a good man you would have approved of. She has 7 kids now(one in heaven that you’ve already met and I know ur taking such good care of her) No longer just 1. They are all so smart. She even has twins! I am going to be a labor and delivery nurse and I really wish you were here to see it. Everyone down here talks about you like I have a clue. And I don’t…I really wish I got to grow a bond with you. But maybe this is better, after all, absence makes the heart grow fonder! Since I never got to tell you it back because I’m sure you told me, I love you. Rest easy:)

Caidance Buckman
Granddaughter

March 5, 2025