Buena Vista Police Department, Virginia
End of Watch: Saturday, October 14, 1933
Age: 67
Tour of Duty: 37 years
Badge Number: CHIEF
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: October 14, 1933
Weapon Used: Officer's handgun
Suspect Info: In custody
Chief of Police James Beard was shot and killed inside the Buesta Vista courthouse and jail, at 2110 Magnolia Avenue, with his own weapon by a prisoner he had transferred from Pennsylvania. The prisoner rushed Chief Beard, gained control of his weapon, and shot him twice. Another officer shot the suspect in the leg. His leg had to be amputated.
Chief Beard had served with Buena Vista Police Department 37 years. He was survived by his wife and four children.