Salt Lake City Police Department, Utah
End of Watch: Wednesday, January 13, 1982
Age: 32
Tour of Duty: 6 years, 6 months
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: January 12, 1982
Weapon Used: Handgun
Suspect Info: Shot and killed
Sergeant Ronald Heaps was shot and killed while investigating a loud music complaint. Unbeknownst to Sergeant Heaps, one of the subjects was wanted for October 1, 1981, murder of Officer Johnny Martinez, of the California Highway Patrol.
As Sergeant Heaps made contact with the subject the man produced a handgun from his waistband and opened fire. One of the rounds struck Sergeant Heaps in his collar bone, just above his vest, and traveled into his chest. Despite being wounded, Sergeant Heaps was able to return fire and broadcast an officer down call.
Other responding officers engaged the suspects in a shootout, killing both men. One other officer was also wounded in the shootout.
Sergeant Heaps was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his wounds shortly after midnight.
Sergeant Heaps had served with the Salt Lake City Police Department for 6-1/2 years. He was survived by his wife and four children.