Dallas Police Department, Texas
End of Watch Saturday, December 5, 1942
Add to My HeroesErnest Elmer Bates
Officer Ernest Bates succumbed to injures received four months earlier when he was struck by a city bus. He was directing traffic at the intersection of Elm Street and Akard Street and was attempting to get out of the way of a car when he jumped in front of the bus.
Officer Bates suffered severe back injuries but was able to return to light duty after three weeks. Two months later, although still in great pain, he returned to full duty directing traffic in the same intersection. On the evening of December 5, 1942, he collapsed while directing traffic and was rushed to a local hospital. He died while in surgery as doctors attempted to correct injuries from the original accident.
Officer Bates had served with the agency for six years. He was survived by his wife and daughter.
Bio
- Age 35
- Tour 6 years
- Badge 249
Incident Details
- Cause Struck by vehicle
- Incident Date Friday, August 7, 1942
Most Recent Reflection
View all 5 ReflectionsOfficer Bates was my grandfather. Since he succumbed to injuries in 1942 and I was born in 1945, I never got to meet him. However, my Mother tells me what a wonderful father and friend he was. He is a hero, and I am very proud to be his grandaughter.
With love,
Janice La Flamme Smith, daughter of Betty Jeane Bates, his only daughter
Allen, Texas
July 11, 2018
Janice Smith
Grandaughter
July 11, 2018
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