Enforcement Officer Benjamin Bert Stone, United States Department of the Treasury

Enforcement Officer Benjamin Bert Stone

United States Department of the Treasury - Customs Service, U.S. Government

End of Watch Monday, October 7, 1957

Benjamin Bert Stone

Enforcement Officer Benjamin Stone was shot and killed near Brownsville, Texas, as he and two other officers patrolling an area on the shores of the Rio Grande River known as "Smuggler's Bend."

Officer Stone had arrested a group of Mexican smugglers and was ushering them towards a house where their contraband was stored. The smugglers overpowered Officer Stone, disarmed him, and then shot him with his own .38 caliber service revolver before fleeing back into Mexico.

Mexican police officers arrested seven men and Officer Stone's service weapon within four hours while officers in the United States arrested the two men who owned the house used by the smugglers. One of the men arrested by Mexican authorities signed a confession stating he shot Officer Stone.

Enforcement Officer Stone was a U.S. Navy veteran and was survived by his wife. son, and two daughters. He was buried in Zanesville, Ohio

Bio

Age 25
Tour Not available
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Location Texas
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Apprehended

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Most Recent Reflection

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To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 56th anniversary year of your death. I am privileged to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service.

My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen officer Larry Lasater

November 3, 2013