Beloved Abilene Officer Henning Dies After Battling Cancer

ABILENE, TX — The Abilene Police Department announced the passing of Officer Daniel Henning, who succumbed to ocular melanoma on Wednesday.

Ocular melanoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the eye. It's the most common type of eye cancer in adults.

Officer Henning was widely known for his dedication to the community and his "larger-than-life personality."

Henning began his law enforcement career with the Arlington Police Department, where he served for 10 years and rose to the rank of Patrol Sergeant before leaving in 2010 to pursue mission work in Nicaragua. He joined the Abilene Police Department in 2012, where he later met his wife, Aymee, who serves as the Police Records Division Manager.

Throughout his career, Henning worked as a patrol officer, Police Training Officer, and School Resource Officer, a position he held starting in 2020. Known for his humor and joy, he left a lasting impact on students, staff, and colleagues. His office reflected his love for Star Wars and police patch collecting, passions he eagerly shared.

In 2022, Henning’s son, Luke, followed in his footsteps and joined the Abilene Police Department. Henning was also a proud father to his daughters, Jade, a NICU nurse, and Katelyn, age 4.

Officer Henning spent his final days surrounded by his family, friends, and brothers and sisters in blue. 

"We mourn the loss of Officer Henning, whose profound impact on the Abilene community will never be forgotten," information from the police department stated.