Sheriff Will S. Purple

Sheriff Will S. Purple | Emmet County Sheriff's Department, Michigan
Emmet County Sheriff's Department, Michigan
Sheriff Will S. Purple

Emmet County Sheriff's Department, Michigan

End of Watch Wednesday, September 5, 1923

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Will S. Purple

County Sheriff Will S. Purple was shot and killed while attempting to serve a court order at a residence near Wequetonsing golf course.

In the course of his duties, Sheriff Purple was serving a court order to seize personal property belonging to the suspect. The suspect became angered by this action and entered his house emerging with a shotgun. He proceeded to open fire on Sheriff Purple fatally wounding the officer. Sheriff Purple was able to return fire hitting the assailant four times before succumbing to his wounds. The suspect died from his wounds ten days later.

Sheriff Purple was survived by his wife.

Bio

  • Age 54
  • Tour 10 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Deceased
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To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 90th anniversary year of your death. I am priviliged to be among the first to leave a tribute to you. 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 Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

April 28, 2013

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