Patrolman Gurney Royall, Winston-Salem Police Department, North Carolina

Patrolman Gurney Royall

Winston-Salem Police Department, North Carolina

End of Watch Friday, August 1, 1941

Gurney Royall

Patrolman Gurney Royall was shot and killed with his own service weapon after he and his partner responded to a disturbance call at Third Street and Church Street. The suspect was able to gain control of Patrolman Royall's weapon and fired it five times. The last shot struck Patrolman Royall in the head. The suspect was taken into custody by Patrolman Royall's partner and other officers.

The suspect was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to death September 11, 1941. His sentence was commuted to life January 28, 1942. On January 1, 1957, his sentence was reduced to 39 years.

Bio

Age 36
Tour 3 years, 11 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to life

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Most Recent Reflection

View all 4 Reflections

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 68th 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 murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Rest In Peace

Phyllis Loya

Anonymous

August 4, 2009