Patrol Inspector Thaddeus "Thad" Pippin

Patrol Inspector Thaddeus "Thad" Pippin

United States Department of Labor - Immigration Service - United States Border Patrol, U.S. Government

End of Watch Thursday, April 21, 1927

Thaddeus "Thad" Pippin

Patrol Inspector Thad Pippin was shot and killed while tracking suspected smugglers along the Rio Grande River one mile west of El Paso, Texas.

A team of four inspectors began tracking a pack train, but were uncertain which trail the smugglers had taken. The team split up to two teams to guard two different trails. During the deployment Inspector Pippin and his partner engaged the suspects in a gunfight and Inspector Pippin was fatally wounded. His partner was also seriously wounded but survived.

The other inspectors rushed to the scene to offer assistance. They were able to confiscate liquor and two burrows but no suspects were ever apprehended.

Inspector Pippin had served with the United States Border Patrol for 11 months. He was survived by his mother. He was buried in Bryan, Texas.

Bio

Age 37
Tour 11 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Location New Mexico
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender No suspects apprehended

Most Recent Reflection

View all 5 Reflections

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 85th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

April 22, 2012