Patrolman Edward Samuel Virden

Patrolman Edward Samuel Virden | Prescott Police Department, Arkansas
Prescott Police Department, Arkansas
Patrolman Edward Samuel Virden

Prescott Police Department, Arkansas

End of Watch Sunday, September 21, 1958

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Edward Samuel Virden

Patrolman Virden was shot and killed inside the old city jail by a suspect who was able to obtain a gun. The suspect had killed an automobile salesman in London, Kentucky the day before. A few days later the suspect was seriously wounded in a gun battle with a police officer in Kingsville, Texas, after the officer had stopped him for speeding.

The teenage suspect was convicted of Patrolman Virden's murder and sentenced to life in the Arkansas State Prison. In 1968 he was granted a temporary furlough, but failed to return and was charged with escape. He was recaptured in Kentucky June 27, 1974. As of 2021 he was in prison; Arkansas' longest serving inmate.

Patrolman Virden was survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

  • Age 36
  • Tour 1 year, 6 months
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Sentenced to life
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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)

September 21, 2020

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