Alabama Department of Public Safety, Alabama
End of Watch Wednesday, July 1, 1970
Add to My HeroesThomas Odean Gillilan
Corporal Gillilan was shot when a man he had stopped for speeding on U.S. 331 south in Crenshaw County, overpowered him, took his pistol, and shot him.
He died three days later at a Montgomery hospital.
The 22-year-old suspect was apprehended, convicted of first degree murder, and sentenced to life.
Corporal Gillilan, who had served in the Korean War, was survived by his wife and two children.
Bio
- Age 38
- Tour 14 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Incident Date Sunday, June 28, 1970
- Weapon Officer's handgun
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 10 ReflectionsI was one month old when you died. Your brother, my grandfather, JC Gillilan, didn't talk about you much because of the grief he suffered for years after your death. However my mother told me stories of you and I carry them to this day.
I followed in your footsteps with a career in law enforcement for a short period of time before moving on to a more promising career. However, I am proud of the legacy you left for me to follow. You will always be remembered for your sacrifice to protect and serve.
Gregory K. Price, Esquire
Gregory K. Price, Attorney at Law
October 26, 2017
Recent LODD Deaths
Sergeant Ben Jenkins
Nevada Highway Patrol, NV
EOW: March 27, 2020
Trooper Justin R. Schaffer
Washington State Patrol, WA
EOW: March 24, 2020
Police Officer Kaia Grant
Springdale Police Department, OH
EOW: March 21, 2020
Senior Deputy Christopher Scott Korzilius
Travis County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: March 18, 2020
Deputy Sheriff Kenterrous Taylor
Bibb County Sheriff's Office, GA
EOW: March 18, 2020
Police Officer Christopher Ryan Walsh
Springfield Police Department, MO
EOW: March 16, 2020
Sergeant James R. O'Connor, IV
Philadelphia Police Department, PA
EOW: March 13, 2020
Police Officer Brent William Perry Scrimshire
Hot Springs Police Department, AR
EOW: March 10, 2020
Corporal Andrew J. Gillette
Sumter County Sheriff's Office, SC
EOW: February 25, 2020