Houston Police Department, Texas
End of Watch Thursday, October 26, 1972
Add to My HeroesJerry Leon Spruill
Officer Spruill was shot and killed in the 600 block of Westheimer Road after being setup in an ambush while working a uniformed, off-duty security detail. He had gone inside to call dispatch when a man came in and told him his car's lights were on. When he went outside to check on the car two suspects approached him and shot him in the back six times. He was transported to Ben Taub Hospital where he was pronounced dead at around midnight.
One suspect was apprehended and sentenced to 38 years for Officer Spruill's murder and was sentenced to life in prison in connection with the attempted murder of two other officers. The suspect was released after serving only 14 years. The second suspect has never been apprehended.
Officer Spruill was a U.S Army veteran and had served with the Houston Police Department for three years. He was survived by his wife and two sons.
Bio
- Age 29
- Tour 3 years, 6 months
- Badge 2458
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Released after serving 14 years
Most Recent Reflection
View all 31 ReflectionsOfficer Spruill,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
October 26, 2022
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