Patrolman Mark Curtis DeCuypere

Patrolman Mark Curtis DeCuypere

Hampton Police Department, Virginia

End of Watch Thursday, May 22, 1975

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Mark Curtis DeCuypere

Patrolman Mark DeCuypere was shot and killed after responding to the scene of a domestic dispute at 386 Leeland Avenue in Hampton.

The male suspect had just murdered his wife in their front yard and was waiting in ambush for responding officers. Patrolman DeCuypere arrived at the scene at 7:30 a.m. and notified dispatch of his location after seeing the woman's body in the street. As he ended his radio call, the man, who was hiding behind a bush next to the driver's door of the patrol car, opened fire with a shotgun and struck Patrolman DeCuypere in the head.

The man remained in his hiding spot until EMTs arrived several minutes later. He began to approach the EMTs who were attending to the murdered woman when Patrolman DeCuypere's backup arrived. The man again hid behind the shrub and shot the other officer as he requested backup. Although wounded, the officer obtained his shotgun and fatally shot the subject.

Patrolman DeCuypere was transported to Dixie Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds several hours later.

Patrolman DeCuypere was a United States Navy and Navy Reserve veteran and had served with the Hampton Police Department for 21 months. He was survived by his wife, parents, and two brothers.

Bio

  • Age 22
  • Tour 1 year, 9 months
  • Badge 81
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Shotgun; 12 gauge
  • Offender Shot and killed

ambush, domestic, shooting call

Most Recent Reflection

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Patrolman DeCuypere,
On today, the 50th 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 U.S. Navy. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Fair Winds And Following Seas

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

May 22, 2025

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