Burton Police Department, Michigan
End of Watch Tuesday, July 5, 1983
Add to My HeroesTerry Lee Thompson
Patrolman Terry Thompson was shot and killed while responding to a burglary alarm at a local store.
The store's alarm monitoring company heard voices inside the store and notified the manager and police department. The manager let Patrolman Thompson into the store to search it and then waited by the front door. Moments later one of the two 16-year-old subjects who were inside shot Patrolman Thompson.
Other officers surrounded the store but were unable to rescue him for two hours, but he had already passed away from his wounds.
His killer was arrested and sentenced to life in prison. An accomplice was convicted of breaking and entering and later released from prison. The juvenile who was sentenced to life in prison was re-sentenced to between 40 to 60 years in 2021.
Patrolman Thompson was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the Burton Police Department for eight years. He was survived by his wife, parents, sister, and brother.
Bio
- Age 32
- Tour 8 years
- Badge 13
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 25 ReflectionsUncle Terry as I read of the resentencing of the animal the murdered you that night I shed a tear! You were taken from us way to young. Your love of your stereo equipment and bright yellow Corvette brought much joy to your younger nephew. I can not imagine why a judge would let animal like this walk the same streets that you once did. Peace be with you and Rest in Heaven you gentle giant. You are missed and remembered often!
Joseph Ketzler
Nephew
April 4, 2022
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