Corporal Stephen Jamelle Ballard, Delaware State Police, Delaware

Corporal Stephen Jamelle Ballard

Delaware State Police, Delaware

End of Watch Wednesday, April 26, 2017

Stephen Jamelle Ballard

Corporal Stephen Ballard was shot and killed while investigating a suspicious vehicle at a gas station on Pulaski Highway, near Salem Church Road, in Bear, Delaware.

He made contact with two people he observed in the vehicle, at which point one of the men began struggling with him. The man pushed Corporal Ballard away from him and began to run. After taking several steps he turned around and opened fire on Corporal Ballard, wounding him. The man then chased Corporal Ballard as he sought cover behind a vehicle. The man shot him numerous times, including several times after Corporal Ballard fell to the ground.

Responding officers apprehended one of the subjects at the scene. The second subject fled to his home where he barricaded himself inside. After a long standoff, the subject exited his home and opened fire on officers, who returned fire killing him.

Corporal Ballard had served with the Delaware State Police for 8-1/2 years and was assigned to Troop 2, Glasgow. He is survived by his wife, daughter, and parents.

Bio

Age 32
Tour 8 years, 6 months
Badge 1305

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Shot and killed

suspicious vehicle

Most Recent Reflection

View all 229 Reflections

I alway read up on our officers who lose so much protecting our communities to make them safe for our families and to hear how they die just sickens me. Ambushed, pulling a car over not knowing who is behind the wheel, etc. so senseless that our officers and Troopers do this job to protect and serve and get no respect. I was so upset when I watched the protest in Texas and these kids yelling out. A good cop is a dead cop. What is happening to our children that they would even make comment like that. But when they are in dire need of help who do they call to protect them from harm and the officers always show no matter what. I know GOD has a special place in heaven for these hero’s and I hope they are happy and at peace. I thank each and every officer and Trooper who protect and serve. You are hero’s no matter what and I hear from so many people in the community that we are sick and tired of our officers and Troopers being slain in the line of duty. It must STOP!!!! Stricter Laws for Cop killers. Death Penalty, no questions asked. GOD bless all of you and Thank you and I say this for so many people who respect our Law Enforcement.

Husband and grandpa Richard Strasbaugh
Non police just a supporter

April 27, 2018