ARKANSAS (WOWO)– Community members and law enforcement officers across Northwest Arkansas are mourning the loss of a local police officer who died in the line of duty—just hours after asking the love of his life to marry him.

Officer Fred Marsh, 24, of the Rogers Police Department tragically lost his life on Saturday while acting to save his new fiancée, Hailey, during a canoeing trip on Missouri’s Elk River. The couple had celebrated their engagement only hours before the incident occurred.

According to family members, Hailey got caught in a strong river current while attempting to return to her kayak. Seeing her in distress, Marsh leaped into the water to help. While Hailey was pushed to safety near a canoe, Marsh was swept under by the current and did not resurface.

Her mother described Marsh as a “gentle giant” devoted to his faith, his loved ones, and serving his community.

“He saw the love of his life in distress, and he was going to help… he gave his life helping someone else,” said her mother, Sheryl Padgett, remembering his selflessness. “There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for anyone.”

On Monday, community members lined the streets as a law enforcement motorcade escorted Officer Marsh’s body through Northwest Arkansas, demonstrating widespread support for his family and fellow officers.

Loved ones are encouraging the public to honor Officer Marsh’s legacy by practicing kindness and service in their everyday lives. Funeral arrangements are being finalized.