Raleigh Police Department, North Carolina
End of Watch Friday, July 11, 1997
Add to My HeroesPaul Andrew Hale
Detective Hale was fatally shot in the head while attempting to apprehend a murder suspect, 20, at an East Lenoir Street apartment building.
Detective Hale and his partner were approaching the suspect's vehicle when the suspect fired a shot, striking Detective Hale. His partner returned fire, wounding the suspect, who was taken into custody.
The suspect was convicted of Detective Hale's murder and sentenced to life in prison. As of June 9, 2023, the suspect, one of North Carolina's most dangerous inmates, remains in a maximum security prison under close watch.
Detective Hale had been with the Raleigh Police Department for 7 years and was promoted five days before his death. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
Bio
- Age 35
- Tour 7 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 78 ReflectionsDetective Paul Hale,
Today we honored your sacrifice during our annual wreath ceremony at the Raleigh Police Traning Center. I was privileged to watch my father give the opening benediction and ending prayers during today's ceremony. My father assisted in training you as a new officer when you started with RPD. Today he reflected on how 7/11/1997 was the worst day of his career when hearing the news of your death. I too have lived through this tragedy now as a Raleigh Police Officer myself and a training officer. Listening to my father's tribute made me re-live the day I lost one of my rookies (Officer Gabriel Torres). Just know that your memory will live on forever here at the Raleigh Police Department along with all the others that have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Honor the Fallen, Inspire the Standing.
Officer Z.R. Wagnon
Raleigh Police Department
July 11, 2024
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