Police Officer Albert Raymond Bluhm, Phoenix Police Department, Arizona

Police Officer Albert Raymond Bluhm

Phoenix Police Department, Arizona

End of Watch Monday, December 28, 1970

Albert Raymond Bluhm

Officer Bluhm was shot and killed around 6:30 p.m. after he stopped a stolen truck at behind the Bali Hi Motel at 16th Avenue & Linden Street. One of two suspects opened fire as he hid in the camper shell of the truck. Officer Bluhm was shot three times and died while attempting to radio his position. A passing motorist notified the dispatcher of his location.

Officer Dale Stone was killed in a motorcycle accident while responding to the officer down call put out when Officer Bluhm was shot.

The suspects, both fugitives from Virginia and wanted in Utah in connection with the wounding of a state trooper, were arrested a week later in Cortez, Colorado, following a chase. The gunman was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison on Jan. 7, 1973. His accomplice was convicted of voluntary manslaughter and sentenced to five years to life.

Officer Bluhm was a U.S. Marine Corps member. He served as a law enforcement officer for 14 years including eight years with the Phoenix Police Department and an early career with the Edina, MN police force. He was survived by his teenage son and his parents.

Bio

Age 40
Tour 14 years
Badge 947
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Rifle
Offender Sentenced to life

stolen vehicle

Most Recent Reflection

View all 23 Reflections

When I was just a kid, my father was a police officer. In 1970 when Bluhm and Stone were killed, it was the first time I realized that my father could fall victim to evil. It left quite an impression on me.
Seven years later (1977) I was sworn in and became a police officer. 39+ years later, I retired (2016).
Each time I go to the AZ Peace Officer's Memorial, I go and find the names of Bluhm and Stone on the wall. I stand in saddened amazement of the names of those who have given it all since this incident. This always has, and always the benchmark for me. Rest in Peace, thank you for your service.

Det. Kelvin A. Helmick; Retired
Chandler AZ PD

July 26, 2017