Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol, Texas
End of Watch Sunday, November 21, 1976
Add to My HeroesSammy Charles Long
Patrolman Sammy Long was shot and killed after making a traffic stop on a driver for a traffic violation on US 67 near Rankin, Texas.
The suspect, who was AWOL from the US Navy, opened fire with a .32 caliber handgun as Patrolman Long approached the vehicle, knocking him to the ground. The suspect then took Patrolman Long's service weapon and shot him in the back six times as he lay on the ground.
A citizen, who was an avid deer hunter returning from a hunting trip, was stopped in a rest stop 150 yards from the traffic stop and witnessed the shooting. The man immediately retrieved his hunting rifle and shot the suspect at a range of 150 yards, killing him.
Patrolman Long had served with the Texas Highway Patrol for 18 years and was stationed at McCamey. He was survived by his wife and son.
Bio
- Age Not available
- Tour 18 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Officer's handgun
- Offender Shot and killed by citizen
Most Recent Reflection
View all 35 ReflectionsSammy was in my Region Four DPS team out of Midland,Tx.
I was on duty in Midland when he went 10:33 traffic.
Trooper Vic Atwood was in Big Lake running hard to help him until the violator quickly stopped by the roadside park. Great shot by a great citizen!
DPS Trooper ll David Hancock retired
Tx DPS
November 22, 2021
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