Stanford Police Department, Kentucky
End of Watch Sunday, January 20, 1991
Add to My HeroesGary Elmer Kidwell
Patrolman Gary Kidwell was shot and killed while making a traffic stop near the intersection of John Street and Goshen Road at 11:15 pm.
The suspect was known to Patrolman Kidwell to have several drinking-related arrests. As Patrolman Kidwell approached the car, the suspect shot him with a .357 caliber handgun. The man fled but was apprehended after a shootout with a neighboring agency.
The man was convicted and sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. He was denied parole in 2003, in 2012, and in 2020.
Patrolman Kidwell had served with the Stanford Police Department for 20 years. He was survived by his wife, two daughters, a son, parents, two brothers, five sisters, and six grandchildren.
Bio
- Age 41
- Tour 20 years
- Badge 554
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun; .357 caliber
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 126 ReflectionsUnbelievable this happened 33 years ago, unbelievable this happened in a small and peaceful Stanford, unbelievable that this happened to you, one of the nicest police officers I’ve ever known and unbelievable that there are no longer any Mayberry’s in the country. You’re missed, Brother.
Detective Joe L. Gilliland
Stanford Police Department
January 21, 2024
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