Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas
End of Watch Tuesday, October 2, 1973
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
Most Recent Reflection
View all 13 ReflectionsBeing new to KHP only 4 years service. I am honored to serve with such brave men who gave all so that others could be safe. My thoughts will be with your family today.
Sherry Eckman, Lead VIN Inspector
KHP VIN KC Region
October 2, 2017
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