Marshal Melvin Dee Stiles, Oronogo Police Department, Missouri

Marshal Melvin Dee Stiles

Oronogo Police Department, Missouri

End of Watch Friday, July 26, 1974

Melvin Dee Stiles

Marshal Melvin Stiles was shot and killed after he and another officer responded to a disturbance call at 401 Grant Street.

As the officers attempted to arrest three brothers, one of the brothers opened fire with a 410 shotgun, striking Marshal Stiles in the chest. Marshal Stiles and the other officer were able to return fire, killing the subject.

Marshal Stiles had served with the Oronogo Police Department for just six months. He was survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

Age 38
Tour 6 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun; 410 gauge
Offender Shot and killed

Most Recent Reflection

View all 7 Reflections

I was working for Mr. Stiles for the City of Webb City that summer before I turned 16. We lived very close to Oronogo at the time. I remember that night like it was yesterday. Officer Stiles responded to a domestic disturbance and from what I recall he was met at the front door by the angry man and killed with a single shotgun blast.

I cried all night until the sun came up. I had never lost anyone remotely close to me and I had worked the entire summer with him. To this day, I remember how he drove us to do good work but was respectful of us even as teenagers.

Rest in Peace Marshall Stiles I will always remember you

Kevin Sanderlin

June 20, 2012