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Patrolman Charles Alvin Snider | Charleston Police Department, South Carolina Charleston Police Department, South Carolina

Patrolman

Charles Alvin Snider

Charleston Police Department, South Carolina

End of Watch: Friday, March 2, 1979

Bio & Incident Details

Age: 53

Tour: 13 years

Badge # Not available

Cause: Gunfire

Incident Date: 3/2/1979

Weapon: Officer's handgun

Suspect: Arrested

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Patrolman Charles Snider was killed with his own service revolver while attempting to arrest a shoplifting suspect in a George Street parking lot behind the Gloria Theater.

The manager of Kress and Co. at 281 King Street said a man walked out of the store with stolen earrings and hair grease, valued at less than $15, just after 5:00 pm. The manager attempted to apprehend the man in the parking lot. The suspect pulled off his red turtleneck sweater and challenged the manager.

A bystander notified Patrolman Snider, who regularly worked the King Street beat. Patrolman Snider then attempted to arrest the man. The suspect wrestled Patrolman Snider’s gun away and shot him at point blank range in the head and in the right leg at about 5:20 pm.

The suspect kept the pistol and ran from the parking lot with his two companions. Three suspects were arrested after a 27-hour manhunt by police.

Patrolman Snider was survived by his wife and five children.

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Most Recent Reflection

It's nice to be able to reflect on you, my old friend. I was but a rookie and you so close to retirement when you were killed so senselessly. May you rest in peace Charlie. I hope there's better coffee than we used to share.

Pfc. John T. Mood
Charleston Police Dept. (Retired)
May 19, 2011

 

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