North Carolina Highway Patrol, North Carolina
End of Watch Saturday, September 14, 1985
Add to My HeroesBobby Lee Coggins
Trooper Bobby Coggins was shot and killed after stopping two Arkansas prison escapees in a stolen pickup truck near Hot Springs, North Carolina, on N.C. 209.
He had initiated the traffic stop after suspecting the driver was a possible DUI. After dispatchers advised Trooper Coggins that the two were escapees one of the men opened fire with a .25 caliber handgun. Trooper Coggins attempted to return fire but did not strike the suspects. The second suspect picked up Trooper Coggins gun and shot him in the head.
Both suspects were captured three days later after trackers and a bloodhound named "Brandy" forced them out of the Blue Ridge Mountains into the hands of waiting agents of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. All the officers involved in the search and arrest gave all the credit to "Brandy".
Both suspects, 23, were convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life plus 93 years on May 21, 1986.
Minutes before Trooper Coggins was killed his fiancee had driven past him as he stopped the suspects.
Trooper Coggins had served with the North Carolina Highway Patrol for one year and had also served as a seasonal park ranger for the National Park Service during the previous two years. He was survived by his fiancee, brother and parents.
Bio
- Age 26
- Tour 3 years
- Badge G-151
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun; .25 caliber
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 42 ReflectionsSuch a sad loss. Such a brave young man that took our oath of service and upheld his oath to the point he laid down his life for all of us. So sad to hear that those two dirtbags even had the chance to commit this terrible crime. You are in our prayers and you will never be forgotten. God Bless you and your family thank you Brandy for catching these dirtbags and I for one hope they both rot in hell.
State Traffic Officer 7185 Mike Becze
California Highway Patrol & US Marine
September 14, 2023
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