Florida Highway Patrol, Florida
End of Watch Tuesday, September 19, 1978
Add to My HeroesAlvin Vincent Kohler
Trooper Alvin Kohler was shot and killed in Miami when he stopped to help a disabled motorist on the Florida Turnpike at SW 168th Street.
Trooper Kohler stopped for a car on fire. He requested a tow truck and started writing the 15-year-old driver a citation for failure to comply with a restriction on his license. When the tow truck arrived, the youth opened fire with a handgun, killing the trooper and the tow truck driver. The suspect and a 13-year-old companion then fled in the tow truck. Minutes later, they were captured by two Florida City police officers.
The shooter was convicted of two counts of murder and robbery and sentenced to three life terms in prison. As of November 22, 2020, he was in prison.
Trooper Kohler was a U.S. Air Force veteran and had served with the Florida Highway Patrol for 11 months. He was survived by his parents, two brothers, and a sister.
Bio
- Age 23
- Tour 11 months
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun; .357 caliber
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 52 ReflectionsI never met you, but think of you everyday. I’m sure your family misses you as much as I miss my father. I’m so sorry you and my dad lost your lives on this day. 46 years ago today, our hearts were broken.
Clara Carrandi Santana
Daughter of Ivan Carrandi
September 19, 2024
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