Trooper James Donald Thornton

Trooper James Donald Thornton | Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas
Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas
Trooper James Donald Thornton

Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas

End of Watch Tuesday, October 2, 1973

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James Donald Thornton

Trooper Thornton was shot and killed while checking on a hitchhiker on I-70 near Topeka, Kansas. The suspect was wanted in New York for the murder of his father. The suspect was shot and killed by other officers when he refused to surrender.

Trooper Thornton had served with the agency for 24 years. He was survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

  • Age 52
  • Tour 24 years
  • Badge 47

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Shot and killed
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Rest in peace and always know that your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

October 2, 2020

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