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Patrolman II Don Lee Overton | Memphis Police Department, Tennessee Memphis Police Department, Tennessee

Patrolman II

Don Lee Overton

Memphis Police Department, Tennessee

End of Watch: Tuesday, October 12, 1999

Bio & Incident Details

Age: 35

Tour: 11 years

Badge # Not available

Cause: Vehicular assault

Incident Date: 10/12/1999

Weapon: Automobile

Suspect: Convicted of 1st Degree Murder

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Patrolman Overton was killed when his patrol car was struck by a stolen vehicle being chased by other officers. Patrolman Overton, who was not involved in the pursuit, was pulling out of a side street when his patrol car was broadsided by the vehicle, which was traveling at an estimated 100 mph. Patrolman Overton was extricated from his patrol car and flown to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. All four of the suspects were seriously injured in the accident.

The driver of the vehicle was initially convicted of felony murder and sentenced to life in prison. The sentence was overturned in February 2004 because the jury was not given instructions to consider lesser sentences. The driver was retried and found guilty of first degree murder on October 14th, 2005. Three other members of the gang pleaded guilty to lesser charges. The gang leader was charged with sending the driver and his crew on the shoplifting spree, pleaded guilty to aiding in a murder and drew a 20-year prison sentence.


Patrolman Overton had served with the Memphis Police Department for 11 years. He is survived by his expectant wife.

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Most Recent Reflection

There was nothing and I mean nothing like seeing Don's big smile as he was returning to the precinct at the end of his day shift as I began my evening shift at the North Precinct of the Memphis TN Police Department. Very grateful to learn from him during my time at North-A and always blessed in his presence afterward. Rest in His peace 167A/ 167B! That ward was never the same without you.

Chaplain Jeff Billingsley
Badges that Care United
Oklahoma City OK USA
Survivor 1994; Former Police Officer, Memphis TN
April 21, 2012

 

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