Westminster Police Department, South Carolina
End of Watch Sunday, August 18, 1991
Add to My HeroesWilliam Joseph Werner, IV
Officer Werner was struck by a car and killed during a roadblock. He and his partner had set up the roadblock at approximately 3:15 AM. As the suspect approached, both officers moved away from the vehicle. The suspect initially started to go to the left of the roadblock. When he saw the officers he turned to the right, left the road and went across the grassy field. Officer Werner turned to go back to the patrol car for cover when he slipped and fell in the damp grass. As he was rising he was struck in the chest by the suspect's vehicle and drug underneath for approximately 50 feet. The suspect then backed his car off of Officer Werner and fled the scene.
On January 27, 1992, the suspect was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to three years in prison.
Officer Werner was two days shy of his one year anniversary with the agency. He had previously served in the U.S. Air Force for six years as a security police officer. He was survived by his wife, two sons, parents and grandmother.
Bio
- Age 27
- Tour 7 years
- Badge 407
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Vehicular assault
- Weapon Not available
- Offender Sentenced to 3 years
Most Recent Reflection
View all 45 ReflectionsOfficer Werner,
It’s V here as you would say. I was in Westminster a few days ago and went by the site that changed Westminster Police Dept forever. I cried like a baby. Thank you for always pushing me to be at my best. Thank you for your friendship. God speed.
Veronica Scott-Pemberton
Senior Financial Fraud Investigations
January 13, 2021
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