North Carolina Highway Patrol, North Carolina
End of Watch Saturday, January 12, 1974
Add to My HeroesWilliam James Smith, Jr.
Patrolman William Smith was killed in an automobile crash while pursuing a traffic violator on N.C. Highway 101 in Carteret County.
His vehicle struck a bridge abutment and burst into flames. Rescuers were unable to approach the vehicle when they arrived because his ammunition was exploding as a result of the heat.
Patrolman Smith was assigned to Troop A, District 8. He had served with the North Carolina Highway Patrol for 25 years and was survived by his wife and son, who later went into law enforcement, and by his daughter.
Bio
- Age 50
- Tour 25 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Vehicle pursuit
- Weapon Automobile
- Offender Not available
Most Recent Reflection
View all 19 ReflectionsPatrolman Smith,
Even though it’s been over 50 years since your End of Watch you are still honored and remembered. I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of North Carolina. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)
February 12, 2024
Recent LODD Deaths
Police Officer Jonathan Diller
New York City Police Department, NY
EOW: March 25, 2024
Patrolman Justin Hare
New Mexico State Police, NM
EOW: March 15, 2024
Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello
Genesee County Sheriff's Office, NY
EOW: March 10, 2024
Border Patrol Agent Christopher Luna
United States Department of Homeland Security - Customs and Border Protection - United States Border Patrol, US
EOW: March 8, 2024
Trooper Christopher M. Gadd
Washington State Patrol, WA
EOW: March 2, 2024
Officer Cody Allen
Independence Police Department, MO
EOW: February 29, 2024
Police Officer Wisbens Antoine
Knoxville Police Department, TN
EOW: February 25, 2024
Deputy Sheriff Charles Rivette
Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: February 21, 2024
Trooper First Class Chase Winston Redner
Georgia State Patrol, GA
EOW: February 20, 2024