Barry Twp chief commits suicide

The Barry Township police chief died from a gunshot wound in an apparent suicide

It was around 7:30 a.m. Wednesday when Mark Kik, 52, from Richland was found suffering from the wound behind the township hall.

The Barry County Sheriff's Department says officials are not looking for suspects in an "unexpected shooting." They say there is no evidence of foul play. They will not confirm nor deny if Kik was on administrative leave at the time.

Barry Township Supervisor Wes Kahler released this statement --

"Mark will be sadly missed by the Barry Township Board and the entire community. He had been with the department for 29-and-a-half years and had been chief for 29 years. Mark was truly part of this community. Our heartfelt prayers and thoughts go out to Mark's family at this very sad time."

Friends may call from noon until 8 p.m. June 14 at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Richland Chapel, 9170 East D Avenue.

Kik's funeral will be held at 1 p.m. June 15 at the Richland Bible Church, 8643 Gull Road.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Kik's honor may be made to your local animal rescue shelter.

Personal messages for his family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com .