Gary Police Department, Indiana
End of Watch Saturday, October 5, 1974
Add to My HeroesJames R. "J.R." Boyce, Jr.
Patrolman J.R. Boyce was off duty returning home from his shift when he was shot and killed after he responded to a robbery-in-progress at Jackson's Steak House on Dunes Highway. He was shot several times as two suspects exited the restaurant's side door.
The suspects were apprehended and sentenced to life in prison. One offender was killed in a 1977 escape attempt from the Lake County Jail. Another offender was denied parole in 2006 and 2022.
Patrolman Boyce was a second-generation officer with the Gary Police Department and had served for six years. He is survived by his wife, son, daughter, mother, and sister. His father had served for 20 years with the department and his son currently serves as chief of police with the Kouts Police Department.
Bio
- Age 32
- Tour 6 years
- Badge 642
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 26 ReflectionsIt's now forty nine years since you went to heaven. You are not forgotten Jr. I remember well our talks on day and during our part time jobs. The years pass but not the memories. You did well officer enforcing justice tell the end. God bless.p
Lt wally derose ret
Gary indiana pd ret.
October 27, 2023
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