Police Chief Julius Paul Cruze, Lake City Police Department, Tennessee

Police Chief Julius Paul Cruze

Lake City Police Department, Tennessee

End of Watch Saturday, October 15, 1960

Julius Paul Cruze

Police Chief Paul Cruze was shot and killed after he and another officer stopped a suspected drunk driver on Creek Street.

The subject had previously been arrested for drunk driving by Chief Cruze and was armed with a pistol during that arrest. Following the arrest the man had threatened to get revenge against the chief.

The other officer informed the man that they knew he was armed and told him to surrender his handgun. Instead of doing so, the man produced a handgun and shot Chief Cruze, killing him instantly. The second officer returned fire, wounding the man. The was located approximately one mile away and taken into custody. He was charged with Chief Cruze's murder.

Chief Cruze was a WWI veteran and had served with the Lake City Police Department for 10 years. He was survived by his wife, three foster sons, two brothers, and two sisters.

Bio

Age 56
Tour 10 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Charged with murder

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Most Recent Reflection

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Although sir you were killed six years before I was born you still have my utmost respect as a law enforcement officer may you rest in peace for internity and I pray that your family never forget you for I never will sir thank you for your services and Godspeed amen

Civilian Tracy Fisher
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October 14, 2017