Deputy Constable Bill Lankford Cornell, Sr., McLennan County Constable's Office

Deputy Constable Bill Lankford Cornell, Sr.

McLennan County Constable's Office - Precinct 1, Texas

End of Watch Thursday, September 27, 1973

Bill Lankford Cornell, Sr.

Deputy Constable Bill Cornell suffered a fatal heart attack while attempting to arrest two men whom he caught breaking into a work van at a construction next to his home in the 900 block of Wooded Acres Drive.

He was able to arrest one subject and then fired two shot at the second subject, but was unable to arrest him. He took the man back to his apartment and called the Waco Police Department before collapsing. The subject he arrested began CPR on him and responding officers also attempted to revive him but were unsuccessful.

The man he arrested was charged with burglary.

Deputy Constable Cornell was a U.S. Navy veteran of WWII. He had served with the Waco Police Department for 20 years and had previously served as the elected constable of Precinct 1 before being defeated. The new constable had appointed him as a deputy constable following the election.

Bio

Age 57
Tour 20 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Heart attack
Weapon Person
Offender Apprehended

Most Recent Reflection

View all 3 Reflections

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 41st anniversary year of your death. I am privileged to be among the first to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service.

My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen officer Larry Lasater

February 15, 2014