Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, Louisiana
End of Watch: Monday, January 30, 1978
Age: 32
Tour of Duty: 8 years
Badge Number: 186
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: January 30, 1978
Weapon Used: Handgun
Suspect Info: Executed
Deputy Sheriff Robert Cochran was shot and killed during a bank robbery while working on special detail at a bank on Metairie Road.
One of the two suspects entered the bank and observed Deputy Cochran. The suspect then exited the bank and informed the second suspect. The second suspect then entered the bank and immediately shot Deputy Cochran in the shoulder.
As he fell to the ground, Deputy Cochran was able to return fire, striking the suspect in the abdomen. The suspect then walked up to Deputy Cochran and shot him in the head, killing him.
Both suspects were apprehended when the wounded man sought medical attention. The shooter was sentenced to death and eventually executed. The accomplice was sentenced to life in prison.
Deputy Cochran had served with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office for eight years. He was survived by his wife, son, and two daughters.