Detroit Police Department, Michigan
End of Watch: Friday, May 23, 1969
Age: 35
Tour of Duty: 13 years
Badge Number: 2510
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: May 22, 1969
Weapon Used: Officer's handgun
Suspect Info: Paroled after 13 years
Police Officer Carter Wells was shot and killed with his own service weapon while making a traffic stop at E. Jefferson Ave. and Walker Street. During the traffic stop, he was leaning into the patrol car when the suspect grabbed his service weapon and shot him.
The subject fled the scene but was apprehended following a pursuit. The man was convicted of Officer Wells' murder and sentenced to life in prison but was paroled after serving only 13 years.
Officer Wells served with the Detroit Police Department for 13 years. He was survived by his wife and two daughters.