Norfolk Police Department, Virginia
End of Watch: Saturday, March 17, 1962
Age: 25
Tour of Duty: 2 years
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Struck by vehicle
Date of Incident: March 17, 1962
Weapon Used: Automobile; Alcohol involved
Suspect Info: Guilty of involuntary manslaughter
Officer William Peterson was struck and killed by a drunk driver while assisting in the execution of a warrant at 9 p.m.
While walking on the service road in the 6500 block of Virginia Beach Boulevard towards another patrol car, Officer Peterson was hit and knocked into a ditch. He was transported to Norfolk Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries an hour later.
The driver was arrested and pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and drunken driving.
Officer Peterson had served with the Norfolk Police Department for two years. He was survived by his wife, son, foster parents, and sister.