Lieutenant James Monroe Vigil, Alamogordo Police Department, New Mexico

Lieutenant James Monroe Vigil

Alamogordo Police Department, New Mexico

End of Watch Wednesday, August 29, 1973

James Monroe Vigil

Lieutenant Vigil was shot and killed after stopping a vehicle for speeding on U.S. Route 54. Unbeknownst to Lieutenant Vigil, the suspect had just shot his 16-year-old wife in Kansas and was fleeing to Mexico. As Lieutenant Vigil approached the car during the traffic stop the man opened fire with a .22 caliber handgun, striking him twice. Lieutenant Vigil was able to return fire, wounding the suspect. Although wounded, the suspect walked to Lieutenant Vigil, took his gun, and shot him twice more. The supect then took the gun and fled, but was found later after committing suicide.
Lieutenant Vigil had been with the agency for over six years and was survived by his wife, daughter and son.

Bio

Age 29
Tour 6 years, 6 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .22 caliber
Offender Committed suicide

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Most Recent Reflection

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To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 40th anniversary year of your death. I am priviliged to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

I pray for solace for all those that love and remember you for I know both the pain and pride are forever. Thanks to your friends for sharing their devotion to you through their reflections/

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

April 20, 2013