Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol, Texas
End of Watch: Sunday, April 1, 1934
Age: 26
Tour of Duty: 4 years
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: April 1, 1934
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Both shot and killed
Patrolmen Edward Wheeler and H. D. Murphy were shot and killed on Easter Sunday by the notorious outlaws, Bonnie and Clyde.
The two patrolmen had stopped their motorcycles on Dove Road, a dirt road just of Highway 114 near Grapevine, thinking a motorist needed assistance. As they approached the vehicle, the two outlaws opened fire with a shotgun and handgun, killing both officers. There was speculation that two members of their gang were also involved Henry Methvin and Raymond Hamilton but it was never proven.
Patrolman Wheeler had served with the Texas Department of Public Safety for 4 years. He was survived by his parents and four siblings and is buried in Grove Hill Memorial Park, Dallas, Texas.
In 2011 Patrolman Wheeler was honored by the Texas Department of Public Safety on the 77th anniversary of his death.