Wildlife Officer Danese Byron Crowder

Wildlife Officer Danese Byron Crowder

Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, Florida

End of Watch Friday, May 3, 1974

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Danese Byron Crowder

Wildlife Officer Dan Crowder was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a man at 8:30 p.m. for hunting deer out of season near Cooks Hammock, Lafayette County.

As Officer Crowder exited his patrol truck, the subject ambushed him, striking the truck door. He was hit with shrapnel and attempted to seek cover behind the truck but was shot in his back. He was found the next day.

The subject was apprehended in Lafayette County. He was convicted of Officer Crowder's murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Wildlife Officer Crowder was a Florida National Guard veteran and had served with the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission for four years. He was survived by his wife and four children.

Bio

  • Age 27
  • Tour 4 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Rifle; .243 caliber
  • Offender Sentenced to life

ambush, poacher

Most Recent Reflection

View all 33 Reflections

This man was a brother to me and my husband Hyman.We spent so many hours with him, Macy and their kids.We became a part if the whole Crowder family.Our oldest daughter was named after him and sadly he never lived to meet her.He was murdered on May 3,1974 and she was born August 3,1974.I know he would have loved her and she him.Her name is Dana Diane Hart Sciarrino and yes she is a deer hunter Dan.We speak of him often and miss him and Macy.So happy they are finally together forever.Dan,keep a watch out we will be there one day soon and can't wait to catch up.Love and miss you every day.

Wanda and Hyman Hart
Best friends (family)

May 25, 2020

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