California Department of Justice, California
End of Watch: Monday, June 14, 1971
Age: 25
Tour of Duty: 2 years, 2 months
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: June 14, 1971
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Shot and killed
Special Agent Richard Morello was shot and killed while conducting an undercover drug buy at 10598 Dufferin Avenue in Riverside.
After Agent Morello purchased the hashish, agents and Riverside Police Officers entered the home. While clearing out one of the bedrooms, Agent Morello was struck by gunfire. He and his partner returned fire, killing the subject.
Agent Morello was transported to the hospital but succumbed to his wound prior to arrival.
Five subjects were arrested and arraigned for possession of hashish for sale, but no additional information is available.
Agent Morello had served with the California Department of Justice, assigned to the Narcotics Bureau, for over one year and previously served with the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office for over one year. He was survived by his wife and parents.