Houston Fire Marshal's Office, Texas
End of Watch Friday, October 16, 2020
Add to My HeroesLemuel Delray Bruce
Investigator Lemuel Bruce was shot and killed at about 3:30 am while conducting surveillance as part of an ongoing arson investigation in the Timbergrove and Heights areas.
He and six other investigators were conducting surveillance following a string of vehicle fires. Investigator Bruce noticed a car matching the description near the intersection of Seamist Drive and West 18th Street, four blocks away from where another vehicle fire had been set minutes earlier. He was in radio contact with the other investigators and was attempting to coordinate a stop of the vehicle when the man opened fire on him, striking him multiple times.
Despite his wounds, Investigator Bruce was able to return fire. The subject committed suicide.
Investigator Bruce was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. He had served with the Houston Fire Department for 16 years and had been assigned to the Houston Fire Marshal's Office as a sworn arson investigator for five years. He is survived by his wife, 12-year-old daughter, and 8-year-old son.
Bio
- Age 44
- Tour 5 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Committed suicide
Most Recent Reflection
View all 124 ReflectionsInvestigator Bruce,
On today, the 4th 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 USMC. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
Semper Fi Devil Dog!
BPAMike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)
October 16, 2024
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