Police Officer Walter Franklin Stathers

On December 19, 1967, I was fifteen and lived in South Miami and I had a Miami Herald paper route in Coconut Grove. I would ride my Vespa scooter down Sunset Drive to the Grove and when I would finish my deliveries I would ride back. On this morning going home I observed a lot of police activity and determined it was the result of Officer Stathers' shooting. I quickly recognized the Kaber's residence because I had gone to school with one of the daughters and observed Officer Stathers body which was covered. He was located on the south side of the residence in the grass and his police car was facing north not far away in the back yard against the wall of the house. I have never forgotten that time and how sad/shock I was. I would later become a police officer for Coral Gables and had the occasion to speak with Officers who were on the scene that fateful day. I would later transfer to the Miami Dade Police Department and would frequently check in with the cold case detectives who were assigned to the case. It is my hope that this case will be solved so justice may be served and the family may finally have the closure they so rightfully deserve.

William J Kean, Sergeant (retired)
Miami Dade Police Department

February 22, 2024