Shelbyville Police Department, Tennessee
End of Watch Wednesday, February 17, 1999
Add to My HeroesMelvin Claxton
Patrolman Claxton suffered a fatal heart attack during a foot chase of an jail escapee. The suspect had escaped from the County jail at approximately 0300 hours by climbing out of the ventilation ducts.
At approximately 16:15 hours the suspect stole a truck and was immediately engaged in a pursuit by a nearby deputy. Patrolman Claxton joined the vehicle pursuit which ended a few minutes later. The deputy and Patrolman Claxton then chased the 19-year-old suspect on foot until he was captured. Patrolman Claxton then began having trouble breathing and collapsed. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Patrolman Claxton had been with the agency for 19 years. He was survived by his wife and four children.
Bio
- Age 53
- Tour 19 years
- Badge 448
Incident Details
- Cause Heart attack
Most Recent Reflection
View all 21 ReflectionsRemembering you today. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. Sending prayers for your family.
Robyn
Bedford County E911
February 17, 2020
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