Deputy Sheriff Harold Dean Humphus

Harold Dean Humphus

Deputy Humphus and Deputy Otis Watkins were shot and killed while attempting to arrest a man who escaped from the Austin State Mental Hospital. During the arrest the suspect was able to gain control of Deputy Humphus' revolver and shot both deputies. The suspect was arrested a short distance away carrying the deputies' shotgun. The Falls County Sheriff was furious, stating how long are they gonna let these --------- mental hospitals just let inmates walk out. The inmate walked out through an unlocked door.

On November 10, 1976, the suspect, 26, was convicted of two counts of murder and sentenced to 50 years.

Deputy Humphus had previously served on the Bryan Police Department for three years. He was survived by his wife, 5-year-old daughter, and 2-year-old son.