Tenino Police Department, Washington
End of Watch Wednesday, January 18, 1978
Add to My HeroesJohn H. Dowies
Patrolman Dowies was shot and killed with his own service weapon after locating a man wanted in an earlier disturbance. Patrolman Dowies was assisting another agency and knew the suspect. He located the man at his home and went to talk to him. As a struggle ensued the suspect gained control of Patrolman Dowies' service weapon and shot him. The suspect, 20, was quickly taken into custody.
On August 1, 1978, the suspect was convicted of second degree murder and sentence to life plus 5 years for stealing Patrolman Dowies wallet. His first parole hearing is in 2028.
Bio
- Age 44
- Tour Not available
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Officer's handgun
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 21 ReflectionsAs a young teen, officer Dowies went out of his way while on patrol in Yelm and gave me and my buddy a ride home three miles outside of Yelm . Just past where another recently fallen officer resided. I had the opportunity later to work with John's son Ira ,working on a control ed wildfire on werhauser land. I witnessed Ira rush through the flames and rescue a fawn seperated from its mother inside the fire line. He came back running through smoke and flames carrying the Bambi in his arms to safety. Which I believe shows that in the Dowries family the apple did not fall far from the tree. Although some thought it was a little foolish I came to admire the compassion and courage that young man had shown that day.
Noel f Thompson
worked with Nelson's forestry crew at that time
January 17, 2018
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