Police Officer Robert Buitrago

Police Officer Robert Buitrago

Winston-Salem Police Department, North Carolina

End of Watch Saturday, January 15, 1994

Add to My Heroes

Robert Buitrago

Officer Robert Buitrago was shot and killed while attempting to stop a robbery at a grocery store where he was shopping, despite being unarmed.

The suspect, 38, was apprehended and sentenced to death. As of June 9, 2023, he remains on death row.

Officer Buitrago, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 4 years, had served with the Winston-Salem Police Department for only 6 months.

Bio

  • Age 23
  • Tour 6 months
  • Badge 541
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Sentenced to death

off duty, robbery, unarmed

Most Recent Reflection

View all 28 Reflections

Officer Buitrago,
On today, the 25th 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 USMC. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!
A fellow LEO;former Marine

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

January 15, 2019

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.