Detective Paul Burgess Whitehead

Detective Paul Burgess Whitehead

Lincoln Police Department, Nebraska

End of Watch Thursday, August 10, 1967

Add to My Heroes

Paul Burgess Whitehead

Detective Whitehead was shot and killed after he and another officer stopped a suspicious vehicle near the intersection of 37th Street and O Street. Unbeknownst to the officers the vehicle was stolen and the three occupants were escaped convicts from Indiana. As they approached the vehicle one of the suspects opened fire with a shotgun, mortally wounding Detective Whitehead. Detective Whitehead was able to return fire and wound one of the suspects.

All three were apprehended and sentenced to life. One was paroled October 9, 1987. Another one died in prison May 11, 1989.

Detective Whitehead was a U.S Navy veteran and had served with the Lincoln Police Department for four years. He is survived by his wife, son, and two daughters.

Bio

  • Age 30
  • Tour 4 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Shotgun
  • Offender Sentenced to life

stolen vehicle, traffic stop

Most Recent Reflection

View all 11 Reflections

Burgess, as he was affectionately known in the family, was my uncle. I was not quite 2 years old when he was killed, so I have no personal memories of him. But my mother spoke often and lovingly of him. The whole family was very proud of his service, and were naturally devastated by his untimely death. I was unaware of this website until today, and am thankful for the information provided here and the remembrances and well wishes of those who posted messages. This is a beautiful way to memorialize those who fell in the line of duty - God Bless all of you who devote your lives to others, as well as those who civilians who help keep my uncle's memory alive. Be well!

Larry Bencivengo
Nephew

July 24, 2022

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.