Technical Sergeant Robert Bruce Butler

Technical Sergeant Robert Bruce Butler | United States Air Force Security Forces, U.S. Government
United States Air Force Security Forces, U.S. Government
Technical Sergeant Robert Bruce Butler

United States Air Force Security Forces, U.S. Government

End of Watch Saturday, January 10, 1998

Add to My Heroes

Robert Bruce Butler

Technical Sergeant Robert Butler was shot and killed after stopping the vehicle of a serviceman who had killed another serviceman moments earlier. The incident occurred on Edwards Air Force Base in Kern County, California. At the time, Sergeant Butler did not know the driver was a suspect in the murder.

He stopped the vehicle for running a stop sign and driving erratically. During the stop, Sergeant Butler called for backup for a possible DUI. The first officer on the scene observed the suspect vehicle speeding away and Sergeant Butler lying on the ground. CPR was started, but the officer was unable to revive him. The suspect was found dead in a dormitory common area at approximately 7:00 am from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Sergeant Butler was assigned to the 95th Security Forces Squadron. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

  • Age 34
  • Tour 13 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Location California
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Committed suicide

vehicle stop

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 75 Reflections

I was stationed with Bob at Edwards Air Force Base. Although not on duty that fateful night; I can vividly remember the phone ring and being recalled to respond. I did not know until reaching the squadron parking lot that Bob had passed. Taken at the hands of a fellow Airman.

Bob was a good friend and one of the finest Security Policeman I had the honor of serving with. He touched my life in many ways. It was my honor to have known such a man. He has been and will continue to be surely missed.

James Koharik, MSgt (Get)
USAF Security Police

July 7, 2020

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.

Recent LODD Deaths