Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, California
End of Watch Tuesday, November 19, 1918
Add to My HeroesGeorge W. Van Vliet
Deputy Sheriff George Van Vliet was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a husband and wife who were wanted in connection with the murders of Chief of Detectives John Rowan, of the Colorado Springs Police Department, Colorado, and Policeman Luther McMahill, of the Denver Police Department, Colorado.
Deputy Van Vliet and his partner were staking out a service station near the U.S. Army's Ross Field, in Arcadia, when the suspects arrived at the scene. When the deputies called on them to surrender the husband opened fire using a pistol concealed in a hidden pocket. The first round struck Deputy Van Vliet, killing him.
The other deputy shot and killed both offenders during a prolonged shootout in which the deputy used every round of ammunition he had. He killed the husband using his last shotgun shell.
Bio
- Age Not available
- Tour Not available
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender Shot and killed
Most Recent Reflection
View all 9 ReflectionsDeputy Van Vliet,
Thank you for your service and giving the ultimate sacrifice. This year I'm participating in the 2025 Police Unity Tour honoring fallen officers nationwide. I will be riding in your honor from Newark, NJ to Washington DC. You gave your life doing God's work. It will be my honor to keep your legacy alive. Thank you again.
Norma Silva
April 15, 2025
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