Metro-Dade Police Department, Florida
End of Watch Wednesday, May 16, 1979
Add to My HeroesWilliam Coleman Cook
Police Officer William Cook was shot and killed at the intersection of NW 77th Terrace and NW 12th Avenue, in Gladeview, after he and other officers responded a shots fired call at 2:11 pm, just four minutes before he was to return to the station to end his shift.
A man had just fired shots into the home of his estranged wife.
He and other members of his squad were only one block away and responded to the scene, although they were not dispatched. When they arrived at the scene one of the officers jumped into the suspect's car and attempted to disarm him but was shot in the head. The officer fell out of the car as Officer Cook returned fire, striking the suspect.
Thinking the suspect was dead, the other officers immediately went to the aid of the wounded officer. The man suddenly rose and opened fire again, striking Officer Cook in the side, between the panels of his vest, and the third officer in the chest. As the man exited his vehicle a detective arrived on the scene and immediately exchanged shots with him, killing him.
Officer Cook had served with the Metro-Dade Police Department for six years. He was survived by his wife, mother, and sister.
Bio
- Age 25
- Tour 6 years
- Badge 1664
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Shot and killed
Most Recent Reflection
View all 19,247 ReflectionsHeroism is the genuine work of love and loyalty demonstrated on a daily basis by those angels of our law enforcement profession. You worked fiercely, tirelessly and without losing faith, sight and integrity, Officer Cook, while serving, defending and protecting our freedoms right here in Dade County your beloved community who salutes your bravery, virtue and maturity beyond your young years of unselfish diligence and sacred vigilance. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Coming up on forty-five years since you made the ultimate sacrifice to lessen evil and rid our streets of wanton violence.
Rabbi Lewis S. Davis
April 27, 2024
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