Patrolman Royce Leroy Bennett

Patrolman Royce Leroy Bennett | Deming Police Department, New Mexico
Deming Police Department, New Mexico
Patrolman Royce Leroy Bennett

Deming Police Department, New Mexico

End of Watch Wednesday, July 25, 1979

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Royce Leroy Bennett

Patrolman Royce Bennett was shot and killed during a traffic stop of a subject who was known to him.

The vehicle stopped in a motel parking lot on U.S. Route 70.

As he approached the vehicle the man shot a rifle through the driver's window, striking Patrolman Bennett in the chest. His vest stopped the round but the impact caused fatal injuries. Before succumbing to his wound he was able to return fire, but did not strike the subject.

The man was acquitted of Patrolman Bennett's murder but was later shot and killed by a Florida Highway Patrol trooper during a traffic stop in which he opened fire on the trooper.

Patrolman Bennett was a U.S. Army veteran and had served with Deming Police Department for just under 18 months. He was survived by his wife and son.

Bio

  • Age 25
  • Tour 1 year, 6 months
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Rifle; 45.70
  • Offender Shot and killed
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Patrolman Bennett,
On today, the 40th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol
El Paso Station

July 25, 2019

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