Memphis Police Department, Tennessee
End of Watch: Saturday, September 9, 1972
Age: 23
Tour of Duty: Not available
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Vehicle pursuit
Date of Incident: September 9, 1972
Weapon Used: Automobile
Suspect Info: Subject never apprehended
Patrolman Michael Wright was killed in an automobile accident while pursuing a suspect on Highway 51 at 3:55 am.
Patrolman Wright and his partner were traveling northbound on Highway 51 when a struck tractor-truck traveling southbound turned left on Watkins Street in front of their patrol car. The tractor was dislodged during impact, and the patrol car went under the trailer. His partner was admitted to Baptist Hospital with a broken leg. Patrolman Wright was transported to John Gaston Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Patrolman Wright served with the Memphis Police Department. He is survived by his wife and young daughter.