Winter Haven Police Department, Florida
End of Watch Wednesday, March 28, 1956
Add to My HeroesGordon Elmer Stotz
Patrol Officer Gordon Stotz was killed in an automobile crash while pursuing another vehicle on the Lucerne Park Road, near Flornce Villa , shortly before midnight.
He and his partner had observed a vehicle speeding near Avenue One, NW, and began to pursue it, reaching speeds of over 100 mph. The patrol car that Officer Stotz was riding in left the roadway and struck a large oak tree, causing him to be ejected. The officer who was driving sustained serious injuries.
The vehicle being pursued also crashed nearby and the occupants were taken into custody.
Officer Stotz was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of WWII and had served with the Winter Haven Police Department for three years. He was survived by his wife and two children.
Bio
- Age 31
- Tour 3 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Vehicle pursuit
- Weapon Automobile
- Offender Apprehended
Most Recent Reflection
View all 13 ReflectionsDear Daddy, This year I am missing you more and more. If you were here on earth, you would be holding your first great grand daughter, Maddie.
I have placed a large photo of you in uniform near me and talk to you most everyday. Sadly I was not contacted this past May to pay my respects to the fallen. It was on my birthday this year and we could have made it VERY special. I hope to finally meet you in heaven, God willing. Look down upon me with pride as I look to you for strength! I am getting old and my health is in question. I will always be your only baby girl. My love to all of our family with you. I
Cheryl Stotz Tillman
Daughter
July 2, 2022
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