Federal Agent Robert Francis Purcell

Federal Agent Robert Francis Purcell

United States Department of Energy - National Nuclear Security Administration - Office of Secure Transportation, U.S. Government

End of Watch Saturday, February 11, 1950

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Robert Francis Purcell

Federal Agent Robert Purcell and Federal Agent Warren Fleshman were killed in an airplane accident while preparing to land at West Mesa Airport in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The pilot was making a final approach to the airport when the plane crashed approximately five miles west, and several miles north of the landing strip.

The two agents were returning from the east coast carrying national security assets and were making their final approach when the Beechcraft plane crashed. The pilot was also killed in the accident.

All of the national security assets were accounted for during the recovery operation.

Agent Purcell was a U.S. Army veteran of WWII. He was survived by his wife, 2-year-old daughter, mother, and brother.

Bio

Age 30
Tour Not available
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Aircraft accident
Location New Mexico

plane crash

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Agent Purcell,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but also when you served with the U.S. Army during World War II. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired

February 11, 2025