Jackson Police Department, Tennessee
End of Watch: Thursday, June 17, 2004
Age: 52
Tour of Duty: 31 years
Badge Number: S1B
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: June 17, 2004
Weapon Used: Handgun
Suspect Info: Sentenced to life
Sergeant Bailey was shot and killed by a robbery suspect following a high-speed vehicle pursuit.
The pursuit started at approximately 0900 hours, when the suspect grabbed a woman's purse at Old Hickory Mall, and then fired a shot in the air as he fled. Officers responding to the mall encountered the suspect and a vehicle pursuit ensued.
The suspect rammed several police vehicles before the pursuit ended when the suspect crashed into two vehicles on North Highland Avenue. As the suspect fled on foot, he exchanged shots with officers, mortally wounding Sergeant Bailey. The suspect was shot numerous times in return gunfire.
Sergeant Bailey was removed to Jackson-Madison County General Hospital where he later died from his wounds.
The suspect was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life in prison.
Sergeant Bailey had served with the Jackson Police Department for 31 years and was getting ready to retire. He is survived by his wife, two sons, and a daughter.