Mississippi Department of Public Safety - Bureau of Narcotics, Mississippi
End of Watch: Friday, September 14, 1979
Age: 25
Tour of Duty: 2 years, 6 months
Badge Number: V-42
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: September 14, 1979
Weapon Used: Handgun; .25 caliber
Suspect Info: Not available
Agent Harold Caldwell was shot and killed while backing up local officers investigating an abduction case in Corinth, Mississippi.
As Agent Caldwell's partner spoke to the suspect the man began to draw a weapon. Agent Caldwell immediately intervened and attempted to disarm the man, but was fatally shot.
The 75-year-old suspect had kidnapped a 37-year-old woman. He was charged with capital murder in connection with Agent Caldwell's murder. On May 21, 1980, a mistrial was declared when he suddenly became very ill in court and was admitted to a hospital. Another trial date would be set if his health permitted, however, he died in 1985 without being tried.
Agent Caldwell had served with the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics for 2-1/2 years. He was survived by his wife and two sons.