Police Officer Kenneth Malcolm Copeland

Police Officer Kenneth Malcolm Copeland

San Marcos Police Department, Texas

End of Watch Monday, December 4, 2017

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Kenneth Malcolm Copeland

Police Officer Ken Copeland was shot and killed while he and other officers attempted to serve a warrant in the El Camino Real neighborhood on a man wanted for a crime of violence.

The officers were ambushed at the man's home on Cottonwood Parkway, near Capistrano Drive. Officer Copeland, who was wearing a vest, was struck multiple times. He was transported in a patrol car to Central Texas Medical Center, where he succumbed to his wounds.

The subject who shot him surrendered following a brief standoff with members of the regional SWAT team. He was convicted of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole.

Officer Copeland was working an overtime shift on the day he was slain.

Officer Copeland was a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and had served with the San Marcos Police Department for 19 years. His death marks the first time in the department’s history an officer was killed in the line of duty, according to the city’s police chief. He is survived by his wife and four children.

El Camino Real Park was renamed Kenneth M. Copeland Memorial Park in December 2020.

Bio

  • Age 58
  • Tour 19 years
  • Badge 432
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Life without parole

ambush, warrant

Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Copeland,
On today, the 5th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the USCG-especially during OIF. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Paratus!

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

December 4, 2022

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