Lieutenant Pilot Henry John "Jay" Cullen, III, Virginia State Police, Virginia

Lieutenant Pilot Henry John "Jay" Cullen, III

Virginia State Police, Virginia

End of Watch Saturday, August 12, 2017

Henry John "Jay" Cullen, III

Lieutenant Pilot Jay Cullen and Trooper Pilot Berke Bates were killed when their Bell 407 helicopter crashed into a wooded area in a residential neighborhood on Old Farm Road in Albemarle County, Virginia.

They were in the area to monitor civil unrest that was occurring in Charlottesville, Virginia, during a large protest. The helicopter had just taken off to monitor the Virginia governor's motorcade after he arrived in the area to assess the situation. The helicopter experienced some sort of issue before crashing into the trees and becoming engulfed in flames.

Trooper Bates and Lieutenant Cullen were killed in the crash.

Lieutenant Cullen had served with the Virginia State Police for 23 years and was assigned as the commander of the Aviation Unit. He is survived by his wife and two sons.

Bio

Age 48
Tour 23 years
Badge 71

Incident Details

Cause Aircraft accident

civil unrest

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Most Recent Reflection

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On behalf of my family, I extend our sincerest condolences on the grievous loss you suffered when Jay was killed.

To the Cullen family, fellow officers, and all who call Jay beloved, my heart goes out to all of you and may you find comfort in your loved ones and your strength in your faith. When my son was killed, the entire law enforcement community in our area embraced us in a circle of love and support, and I know you will receive the same support. It makes the unbearable less torturous, and I pray for your solace. I hope that your family knows that a nation mourned for you.

This reflection is sent with the utmost respect for the dedicated service Lt. Cullen gave to his community and the citizens of Virginia and for the supreme sacrifice he and his family made on August 12, 2017

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg Officer Larry Lasater, eow 4/24/05

August 27, 2018