Game Warden Eugene Sara

Game Warden Eugene Sara

Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Montana

End of Watch Monday, January 7, 1974

Add to My Heroes

Eugene Sara

Game Warden Eugene Sara and Chief of Police Don Williams, of the Thompson Falls Police Department, were shot and killed after responding to a domestic disturbance call at a home near the intersection of Spruce Street and Haley Avenue.

The suspect had already shot Chief Williams and stolen his weapon. As Warden Sara and a county sheriff's deputy arrived at the scene the suspect opened fire on them, mortally wounding Warden Sara. Warden Sara and the deputy were able to return fire, killing the suspect.

Warden Sara's wife was working as a dispatcher on the night of the incident and dispatched the officers on the call.

Warden Sara was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of WWII and the Korean War. He had served with the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks for 16 years. He was survived by his wife and children.

Bio

  • Age 48
  • Tour 16 years
  • Badge FG58
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Officer's handgun
  • Offender Shot and killed

domestic

Most Recent Reflection

View all 20 Reflections

Gene was my Dad’s cousin. I was 14 when Warden Sara was killed. I remember my Dad flying from Seattle to Montana for the memorial service. It was a very sad time for our family. Gene is the only member of law enforcement I know who was killed in the line of duty. I hope it is the last.

Dan Bailey
Cousin

February 2, 2023

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.