The city was in shock last Friday when they learned our beloved Chief Police Steven Newkirk had passed away.
The following is from the San Saba County Sheriff's Office on that day:
It is with profound sorrow that we share the sudden and unexpected passing of our dear friend, mentor, and leader—San Saba Chief of Police, Steven B. Newkirk. Chief Newkirk passed away at 03:47 this morning.
Steve joined the San Saba Police Department in 2021 and quickly rose to the rank of Detective. In that role, he brought a spirit of positivity and growth that deeply influenced both the department and the community. When Chief Bauer stepped down, Steve once again stepped up, and in 2024, he was appointed Chief of Police.
Under his steady and inspiring leadership, the department continued to thrive, moving forward with strength and unity. Steve was more than just a colleague— he was a true friend and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His absence leaves a profound void, but his impact and legacy will remain.
Rest in God’s heavenly embrace, Brother—we’ve got it from here.
#211 10-42 Comments from the community included the following: We are grieved as well. Praying comfort for his family.
Praying for the Newkirk family.
God comfort his family, friends, and comrades.
What a great leader and mentor.
Isaiah 41:10 RIP. Prayers. This is very heart breaking to the public he was one of the best San Saba has had in a long time prayers for all his loved ones may he R.I.P. he will truly be missed my many.
Prayers for him and his family. Many prayers sent to you all and his family.
Oh my! So very sorry to hear this. Such a nice guy, always ready to help as the need arose Sending prayers to his family and San Saba Police Department.
Complete shock and grieved. He was a great man and officer. Prayers for all family and friends.
Praying for his loved ones and friends. Peace and comfort in the Lord be with you all.
He will be truly missed. Always a friend.
Heartbreaking! Prayers for all of the family.
Prayers for the family of this very honorable man as he joins his law enforcement brothers and sisters in heaven! He will be missed by those he served!
May he rest in peace.
Sending prayers to family. Sending prayers to everyone that knew and loved him. He was always so kind when dropping the girls off at school. He will definitely be missed.
Condolences and prayers. Our thoughts and prayers for the family.
We are all in shock and very sorry for his loss.
An End of Watch ceremony was held Friday, April 11th, at 1 p.m. in front of the San Saba County House. Many gathered, and the flags were at half mast in honor of Chief Newkirk. A wreath was placed on the Chief’s vehicle for the ceremony.
Officer Eric Batchelor came by the news office on Monday, April 14th, to give more information about the events surrounding Chief Newkirk’s service on Friday, April 18th.
An escort of approximately 75 emergency vehicles will depart from Lampasas at 11:30 a.m.
They will arrive in San Saba at approximately 12:10 p.m. and will proceed to San Saba's First Baptist Church.
There is an estimated 75 emergency vehicles that are expected in the procession including: at least four from Lewisville, two motor cops from Corinth, Horseshoe Bay, Llano Chief of Police John Bauer (former SS PD Chief), San Saba VFD, Hamilton EMS, SS Sheriff’s Office, SS PD, Plano, and more. Communications about the Chief’s passing and service information was sent out to law enforcement offices statewide.
High Street and Wallace Street will be blocked off for the procession.
Upon arrival at San Saba’s First Baptist Church, the Honor Guard will unload Chief Newkirk’s coffin, and Lewisville Police Department will handle the casket watch.
After the service, officers will be lined up for a 21-gun salute; a bugler will play taps. There will be a flag folding ceremony, and Office Batchelor will present the flag to Chief Newkirk’s widow, Kristy Newkirk. Bagpipes will be playing.
Pall bearers will load Chief Newkirk’s coffin, and the second escort will take place somewhere around 2:45-3:00 p.m. to Sneed Funeral Home in Lampasas.
Officer Batchelor noted that the San Saba Sheriff’s Office will cover the city of San Saba on Friday so the Police Department can participate in honoring Chief Steven Newkirk.
Officer Batchelor stated the presence of the public during the procession and at the service would be an encouragement to the family. He noted that he was very close to Chief Newkirk and called him his best friend.
Even though San Saba is currently without a police chief, Officer Batchelor emphasized the San Saba Police Department will still have 24/7 patrol coverage maintained for our safety.
See Steven Bryce Newkirk's obituary.