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Police Officer John Wesley Sykes, Jr. | Memphis Police Department, Tennessee Memphis Police Department, Tennessee

Police Officer

John Wesley Sykes, Jr.

Memphis Police Department, Tennessee

End of Watch: Friday, December 31, 1982

Bio & Incident Details

Age: Not available

Tour: 1 week

Badge # Not available

Cause: Gunfire

Incident Date: 12/31/1982

Weapon: Gun; Unknown type

Suspect: Not available

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Officer Sykes was shot and killed while pursing a vehicle. At approximately 1911 hours, Officer Sykes and his FTO observed a vehicle driving erratically. Unknown to the officers, the two occupants had just committed an armed robbery in a Post Office parking lot. The officers attempted to stop the vehicle and a pursuit began. During the pursuit, Officer Sykes and his FTO lost sight of the car. As they were passing a street, they noticed the car had pulled into the street to hide.

The officers quickly turned around to apprehend the suspects. The suspect vehicle sped out from its hiding place. As the suspect vehicle passed the patrol car, the suspects opened fire. Officer Sykes was struck in the neck. He was rushed to Methodist Hospital where he died about two hours later.

Police Officer Sykes had graduated from the Police Academy only 13 days prior to this incident.

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Your heroism and service is honored today, the 30th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect and your memory will always be honored and revered. I pray for solace for all those who love and miss you for I know both the pain and pride are forever.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05
January 3, 2012

 

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