Police Officer Vernon J. Owings, Long Beach Police Department, California

Police Officer Vernon J. Owings

Long Beach Police Department, California

End of Watch Friday, June 24, 1960

Vernon J. Owings

Officer Owings was shot and killed when he and his partner stopped to help what they thought were two men having car trouble on Seaside Boulevard. One of the men produced a handgun and shot and killed Officer Owings. Both men were apprehended.

The gunman was the leader of a gang responsible for 70 holdups that netted the gang more than one hundred thousand dollars. He was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to death on November 2, 1960. His sentence was later commuted to life.

Bio

Age 31
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Sentenced to life

Most Recent Reflection

View all 12 Reflections

Although I was born after you passed away I have always known about my uncle Vern who was killed in the line of duty. Growing up in Long Beach myself I know several officers who still remember the day one of their brothers had fallen. You are truly missed

Terri
Niece

October 24, 2016