Officer Richard Allen May, Jr., East Palo Alto Police Department, California

Officer Richard Allen May, Jr.

East Palo Alto Police Department, California

End of Watch Saturday, January 7, 2006

Richard Allen May, Jr.

Officer Richard May was shot and killed when he responded to a disturbance call.

Officer May responded to the corner of University Avenue and Weeks Street at approximately 1630 hours. When he arrived, he observed several men fighting. As he approached the group, one of the men fled. Officer May attempted to stop that male, when the suspect turned around and opened fire with a semi-automatic handgun, killing Officer May. The suspect fled on foot, but was apprehended later that night. The suspect, a documented gang member, was found with a bullet wound to his leg, that had been inflicted by Officer May before he died.

A 14-year-old police explorer was participating in a ride along with Officer May at the time of the incident, but was not injured.

Officer May was a US Marine Corps veteran and had served with the East Palo Alto Police Department for 18 months. He had previously served for 13 years with the Lompoc Police Department. He is survived by his wife and three daughters.

Bio

Age 38
Tour 14 years, 6 months
Badge 33
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to death

Most Recent Reflection

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Today at a fundraiser in Detroit I was introduced to a lovely woman Tami. My two friends Andrea & Debbie had organized this event to support families who are no longer whole. This happening from a loved one while serving and protecting the citizens in their communities. Tami I wanted to make this post showing your love for the one that you lost is felt. I am deeply honored to have met you and Richard May Jr. EOW 1-7-06 will now be in my thoughts and prayers --Never forgotten

CPL Edward Lawson
Detroit Police Department

February 25, 2018