Memphis Police Department, Tennessee
End of Watch: Friday, December 29, 1978
Age: 24
Tour of Duty: 1 year
Badge Number: 247
Cause of Death: Vehicular assault
Date of Incident: December 29, 1978
Weapon Used: Automobile; Alcohol involved
Suspect Info: Charged with vehicular homicide
Patrolman James Bush was struck and killed by a vehicle being operated by an intoxicated driver.
He was directing traffic at the scene of an accident on South Third Street, near East Mitchell Road, when he was struck. The 24-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene and charged with vehicular homicide, driving while intoxicated, and reckless driving. He was released after posting a $5,000 bond.
This incident led to the Memphis Police Department issuing reflective vests to every officer.