Patrolman Donald A. Stillman, Henrico County Police Department, Virginia

Patrolman Donald A. Stillman

Henrico County Police Department, Virginia

End of Watch Thursday, November 8, 1984

Donald A. Stillman

Patrolman Donald Stillman was shot and killed after pursuing a suspect who had just sexually assaulted a woman.

He was on patrol with a ride along in a residential area, which was under construction, when he noticed a suspicious vehicle parked on the street. Unbeknownst to Patrolman Stillman, the suspect had just finished assaulting the woman he had abducted from a nearby gas station. As he approached the vehicle the victim ran to Patrolman Stillman and the suspect ran into nearby woods.

Patrolman Stillman pursued him and apprehended him. Before the suspect was handcuffed a struggle ensued. The man gained control of Patrolman Stillman's .38 caliber handgun and shot him twice in the head.

The suspect was apprehended the next day. He was convicted of Patrolman Stillman's murder sentenced to life in prison.

Patrolman Stillman had been with the Henrico County Police Department for seven years. He was survived by his expectant wife.

Bio

Age 28
Tour 7 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to life

foot pursuit, sex offense, suspicious vehicle

Most Recent Reflection

View all 26 Reflections

In 1981, Officer Stillman showed my parents and I what a truly professional and kind person he was. I was 18 and had just moved in with two roommates when someone began stalking me. They didn't even have that term then but of all the responding officers he was the only one who treated it as an ongoing investigation. He never let us down and we have missed him terribly for all these years. I thank God all the time for sending him to us. He was a wonderful human being who will never be forgotten by me.

Nancy Jane Fortner Clark, Aylett
citizens helped by officer

July 4, 2016