Patrolman Vadas G. Richardson
Kentucky Highway Patrol
Kentucky
End of Watch: Saturday, October 7, 1944

Biographical Info
Age: 33
Tour of Duty: 1 month, 2 weeks
Badge Number: 168

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Saturday, October 7, 1944
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Committed suicide

Patrolman Richardson was shot and killed when he stopped to render aid to a vehicle parked on the side of Highway 25 near London, Kentucky. As he approached the vehicle one of the occupants opened fire, striking him in the chest.

Patrolman Richardson's partner, and two deputies who had pulled up just before the shooting started, returned fire. One of the deputies was also wounded. The suspect was able to flee but committed suicide the following morning at his sister's home. Two other men were arrested and charged in connection with the murder.

Patrolman Richardson was a WWII veteran and had served with the agency for only 6 weeks. He was survived by his wife, mother, two sisters, and three brothers.