WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – Before he dedicated his life to protecting others, Elijah Ming was known for his skills on the baseball field, where he excelled at pitching.
On Monday, Marc Blackim, the General Manager and Co-Owner of the Hutchinson Monarchs, remembered Ming as a fantastic teammate who kept everyone motivated and was a vital part of the team.
Wyandotte County Deputy Elijah Ming was killed in the line of duty on Saturday, July 26. Those who knew him remember his time before stepping into law enforcement.(Fort Scott Community College)
Ming played for the Monarchs in 2011, following a collegiate career that included stints at Fort Scott Community College, Avila University, and Wayne State College.
Ming served with the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office for nine years and was shot and killed on Saturday while responding to a domestic incident. He was 34.
Blackim shared his heartbreak over the news of Ming’s death, expressing that it still feels surreal.
“It’s real, it’s reality, but not. It probably hasn’t fully sunk in yet,” Blackim said.
As a member of the Monarchs, Ming played during the National Baseball Congress Tournament in Wichita. Blackim recalled the potential he saw in Ming, noting that everyone recognized he was destined to make significant contributions to his community.
“He felt like that was his calling and that he could make a difference in people’s lives,” said Blackim. “We all need more people like Elijah. And what they give day in and day out.”
Whether on the baseball field with his teammates or serving the community, Blackim said Ming’s impact will be long-lasting. To honor his memory, the Monarchs will retire his jersey, number 32.
“Thank you for being a Monarch, thank you for doing what you did in life, and I love you,” Blackim said.
The team plans to honor Ming during the NBC tournament, with details to be announced once finalized. Ming is survived by his wife of seven years and their son.
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