Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, North Carolina
End of Watch Friday, February 25, 2011
Add to My HeroesFrederick Alston Thornton
Officer Fred Thornton was killed when a flash-bang device detonated as he handled SWAT equipment.
He had just returned home following a SWAT call out to serve a warrant and was attempting to render his equipment safe when the Def-Tec 25 flash-bang discharged, causing massive injuries. Investigation determined that while at the scene of the SWAT deployment Officer Thornton removed the device's safety pin in preparation for using it. It is believed that he was attempting to reinsert the pin when the device detonated.
He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Officer Thornton had served with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department for 28 years. He is survived by his wife and four children.
Bio
- Age 50
- Tour 28 years
- Badge 415
Incident Details
- Cause Explosion
Most Recent Reflection
View all 219 ReflectionsJohn 5:28, 29 - "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out". I pray that everyone can find peace in knowing that we will see this officer as well as many others again in Paradise soon. Until then, please accept my condolences.
A.W. Montgomery
Concerned Citizen
September 18, 2018
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