Police Officer Chesley A. Stephens

Chesley A. Stephens

Officer Chesley Stephens died as a result from a gunshot wound received three days earlier.

On November 10, 1984, Officer Stephens and another officer responded to a report of drug dealing in the 2600 block of San Pablo Avenue. As they made contact with several individuals, one suspect ran from them. Both officers set out on foot in pursuit of the man.

The suspect ran down a walkway between two houses in the
700 block of 26th Street and Officer Stephens followed. The
suspect took up a position against the wall near the corner of
the building, holding a gun in his hand. As Officer Stephens rounded the corner, the suspect fired, striking Officer Stephens in the head. Officer Stephens never regained consciousness and died three days later.

After a lengthy search, the suspect was apprehended and convicted of first degree murder; he was sentenced to life.

Officer Stephens had been with the agency for six years.