Agent Thomas Edward Riggs

Agent Thomas Edward Riggs | San Diego Police Department, California
San Diego Police Department, California
Agent Thomas Edward Riggs

San Diego Police Department, California

End of Watch Sunday, March 31, 1985

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Thomas Edward Riggs

Agent Thomas Riggs was shot and killed following a vehicle pursuit that ended in the driveway of 6564 Brooklyn Avenue.

One of the subjects in the vehicle was able to gain control of another officer's handgun. The suspect shot and paralyzed the other officer before shooting Agent Riggs in the stomach, severing an artery.

The suspect then shot a civilian ride along before stealing one of the police cars and running over the second officer. The suspect was eventually caught but acquitted of all major charges and has since been arrested several times for violent crimes. In July 2002 the suspect committed suicide.

Agent Riggs had served with the San Diego Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife and son.

Bio

  • Age 27
  • Tour 5 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Officer's handgun
  • Offender Acquitted of all major charges
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I went to high school with Tom and worked at the Black Angus in Chula Vista while we were taking criminal justice classes at Southwestern College. Tom went to SDPD while I went to the LAPD. I was working morning watch when I learned of Tom's death. I was heart broken and still am. Tom and his family is continually on my mind. I was later devastated learning the suspect was acquitted of all charges wondering how a jury could come to such a decision to acquit. Tom was taken way to early in his life. He was a wonderful person and he is missed. Love and prayers go out to Tom and his entire family.

Former police officer. Dana Hansen
LAPD. Friend

July 16, 2021

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