Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Oregon
End of Watch: Saturday, September 14, 2002
Age: 38
Tour of Duty: 14 years
Badge Number: 108
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: September 14, 2002
Weapon Used: Rifle
Suspect Info: Shot and killed
Deputy Sheriff Morris Taylor was shot and killed after responding to a report involving a man performing lewd acts at a motel on Bear Creek Road in Curtin, Oregon at approximately 7:40 am.
After making initial contact with the suspect, Deputy Taylor returned to his patrol car to await assistance. When another deputy arrived, they both approached the motel room where the suspect was located. The suspect opened fire on them with a rifle, fatally wounding Deputy Taylor. Deputy Taylor was wearing his vest at the time but was shot in the head. Deputies returned the gunfire and killed the suspect.
Deputy Taylor had served with the Douglas County Sheriff's Office for three years and previously served in law enforcement an additional 11 years with two other agencies. He is survived by his wife, parents, and sister.