Patrolman John E. Mills

Patrolman John E. Mills

Kingsport Police Department, Tennessee

End of Watch Saturday, September 7, 1940

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John E. Mills

Patrolman John Mills was shot and killed in an ambush by one of two brothers who had escaped from the Bristol jail.

The shooting occurred in a thicket of bushes off of Oak Street, between Catawba Street and Watauga Street. Patrolman Mills was shot once in the back of the head and once in the arm.

The gunman was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. On October 20th, 1955, he escaped from the Tennessee State Penitentiary. On March 27th, 1958, he was recaptured by FBI agents in Baltimore, Maryland, just a few hours after he was added to the FBI's 10 Most Wanted list.

Patrolman Mills had served with the Kingsport Police Department for two years and also was a member of the fire department.

Bio

  • Age 30
  • Tour 2 years
  • Badge 13

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Sentenced to life

ambush, escapee

Most Recent Reflection

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Rest in peace always knowing that your service and sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

September 7, 2020

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