Patrolman William H. Keith

Patrolman William H. Keith

Del City Police Department, Oklahoma

End of Watch Tuesday, January 19, 1965

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William H. Keith

Patrolman William Keith succumbed to injuries sustained in a vehicle crash seven days earlier.

Patrolman Keith, who had only been on the force for three days, was involved in a vehicle pursuit. Patrolman Keith's sergeant, who was riding with him at the time, was firing his service pistol and shotgun at the fleeing car. Patrolman Keith lost control of the vehicle at Southeast 74th Street and South Sunnylane Road and struck a light pole at an estimated 80 mph.

Patrolman Keith was taken to a local hospital where he died one week later. The sergeant was critically injured and medically retired from the department.

The driver they were pursuing was charged with manslaughter, leaving the scene of an accident, and failure to stop and render aid. He was acquitted of the manslaughter charge.

Patrolman Keith had served with the Del City Police Department for ten days. He was survived by his wife and three young children.

Bio

  • Age 26
  • Tour 1 week
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicle pursuit
  • Incident Date Tuesday, January 12, 1965
  • Weapon Automobile
  • Offender Apprehended

single vehicle crash, vehicle pursuit

Most Recent Reflection

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Your time here was short but your memory will live forever. Thank you for the way you lived. So courageous and dedicated. Rest in peace. You will never be forgotten

Jerry
Fellow citizen

January 19, 2024

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