Police: Wichita was next for ‘Cops’ crew member killed during Omaha robbery shooting

The “Cops” crew member who was killed during a robbery in Omaha was scheduled to be in Wichita early next month for the TV show.

Bryce Dion, 38, was hit by gunfire as police fired at a robbery suspect who was fleeing a Wendy’s restaurant after shooting at police with an Airsoft pellet gun, authorities have said. Dion was wearing a bullet-proof vest, but one bullet fired by police struck his arm and then entered his chest through a gap in the vest.

Dion was slated to arrive in Wichita with a “Cops” crew the second week of September to film episodes of the long-running series, Lt. James Espinoza said.

“Cops” has been in Wichita twice before to shoot episodes: in 2006 and 2003.

“They’re very good people to work with – very professional,” acting police chief John Speer said.

Wichita police officials had been in negotiations with Langley Productions to bring “Cops” back to Wichita. The reality program has been on the air since 1989.

“We are unclear how the death is going to affect production,” Speer said. “We’ll know more in the week to come.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the family of the ‘Cops’ crew member that was killed. It’s tragic.”

Police officials welcome the opportunity for Wichita officers to appear on “Cops,” Speer said.

“It’s an opportunity for us to showcase the men and women of our department on a national level — as well as our community,” he said.

If Dion’s death prompts the cancellation of the September shoot, Speeer said, he understands.

“We will just make other arrangements in the future,” he said.

This story was originally published August 28, 2014 at 12:52 PM with the headline "Police: Wichita was next for ‘Cops’ crew member killed during Omaha robbery shooting."