Arizona Department of Public Safety, Arizona
End of Watch Friday, February 5, 1971
James L. Keeton
Officer James Keeton was shot and killed during a traffic stop on I-40, 12 miles west of the New Mexico border.
A struggle ensued and the suspect gained control of his weapon and shot him with it. Minutes later Officer Don Beckstead stopped the man for another traffic violation. It is believed that Officer Beckstead did not know that the man had just shot and killed Officer Keeton.
During that traffic stop, the suspect also shot and killed Officer Beckstead. The man was wanted for murdering a young girl in California. After shooting both officers the man murdered another citizen before being shot and killed by members of the New Mexico State Police.
Bio
- Age 27
- Tour Not available
- Badge 310
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Officer's handgun
- Offender Shot and killed
Related LODD Deaths
Officer Don A. Beckstead
Arizona Department of Public Safety, AZ
EOW: February 7, 1971
Most Recent Reflection
View all 16 ReflectionsWe, the citizens of Arizona are honored to have men like Officer James Keeton to protect us. May James Keeton rest in peace. He will never be forgotten.
Stan Jefferson
Citizen of Arizona
February 5, 2017
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