California Highway Patrol, California
End of Watch: Sunday, September 7, 1980
Age: 49
Tour of Duty: 18 years
Badge Number: 3202
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: September 7, 1980
Weapon Used: Handgun; .38 caliber
Suspect Info: Committed suicide
Officer Ernest Felio was shot and killed after making a traffic stop in Smith River.
A witness testified he heard a brief conversation between Officer Felio and the suspect before hearing gunshots. The suspect shot Officer Felio twice and then took his service revolver.
The suspect was later apprehended and sentenced to death. He committed suicide in jail by hanging himself in his cell.
Officer Felio had served with the California Highway Patrol for 18 years. He was survived by his wife, four daughters, and three grandchildren.