Patrolman William R. H. Fortye, Las Vegas Police Department, Nevada

Patrolman William R. H. Fortye

Las Vegas Police Department, Nevada

End of Watch Friday, October 28, 1966

William R. H. Fortye

Patrolman William Fortye was shot and killed with his own weapon after conducting a traffic stop on Highland Drive.

During the stop the suspect began to struggle with Patrolman Fortye and was able to gain control of his weapon and shot him three times. Patrolman Fortye's canine partner, Burgie, attacked the suspect and bit him on the hand. The suspect was later apprehended as a result of the dog bite. Burgie was found sitting next to Patrolman Fortye when backup officers arrived.

The suspect was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life. He was paroled in 1981, and died November 11th, 1998.

Patrolman Fortye had served with the Las Vegas Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife and daughter.

Bio

Age 32
Tour 5 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Paroled in 1981

Most Recent Reflection

View all 15 Reflections

I grew up in Las Vegas, and in our Neighborhood there was a Pool for
the Francisco Park Residents. I was 15 and Patrolman Fortye, whom we all called Life guard Bill, was the Life guard there for the entire Summer. Could NOT have asked for a Better Human Being, and how he got along with all of the Kids,(Me, being one of them)...What a Shame, and waste of a great man!!

Gerry S. Genovese
Friend and he was my Idol

December 20, 2014