Patrolman Alva H. Burnett

Patrolman Alva H. Burnett

Pierre Police Department, South Dakota

End of Watch Sunday, June 11, 1944

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Alva H. Burnett

Patrolman Alva Burnett was shot and killed around 6 p.m. after responding to a domestic disturbance for the second time in one day at a home on West Sioux Avenue near Charles Street.

Prior to the second call, the suspect had doused his wife with gasoline and lit her on fire. Patrolman Burnett was attempting to talk to the suspect, who was standing in the doorway of the couple's home, when the man suddenly raised his 410-gauge shotgun and shot Patrolman Burnett.

The suspect was killed at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Patrolman Burnett had served with the department for two years.

Bio

  • Age 54
  • Tour 2 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Shotgun; 410 gauge
  • Offender Deceased

domestic

Most Recent Reflection

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Patrolman Burnett,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Pierre. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol
El Paso Station

June 11, 2019

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