Officer James Jenkins Spann

Officer James Jenkins Spann

Abilene Police Department, Texas

End of Watch Thursday, June 17, 1954

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James Jenkins Spann

Officer James Spann was shot and killed following a hostage standoff.

A man had taken several hostages in an attempt to demand a ransom. After his plans were foiled he attempted to flee and engaged officers in a shootout near a gas station around 8:30 p.m. Officer Spann was shot 4 times and was fatally wounded.

The suspect, 33, who had served a previous prison sentence for homicide, was also shot and wounded. He was later sentenced to 99 years in prison.

Officer Spann, who served in the U.S. Navy during WWII, was survived by his wife, daughter, and son.

Bio

  • Age 27
  • Tour 2 years
  • Badge 130
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Sentenced to 99 years

hostage

Most Recent Reflection

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Jimmi spann jr was my brother, having grown up with him, I can never forget my brother Jim spann, and until now, I am feeling the hurt, deep in my heart, I have ultimate respect for officers of the law, risking their lives, to protect us all, I love you all forever, coy Lynn preslar, and my mother, chritlstene opal driver spann

Eds coy Lynn preslar
[email protected]

November 21, 2023

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