Mohave County Sheriff's Office, Arizona
End of Watch Monday, July 22, 1974
Add to My HeroesJames Michael Lewis
Deputy Sheriff James Lewis was shot and killed with a high-powered rifle while investigating a domestic assault at a service station on Arizona 95 known as Cook's Corner.
After responding to the call in Mohave Valley, 20 miles south of Bullhead City, a service station operator fired a single shot from a rifle at close range. The shot instantly killed Deputy Lewis. A witness was also wounded by the man as he fled the scene.
The man, 53, was convicted after his first two trials ended in mistrials. On March 10, 1975, he was convicted of involuntary manslaughter, assault with intent to kill, and sentenced to 25 years to life. In 1968 and part of 1969, the suspect served a year in prison for stabbing a bartender during a drunken rage. On June 25, 1986, the Arizona Supreme Court denied his appeal.
Deputy Lewis was a United States Army Vietnam War veteran and had a master's degree in police science.. He had served with the Mohave County Sheriff's Office for 13 months and had previously served with the Coconino County Sheriff's Office for one year. He was survived by his wife and child.
Bio
- Age 30
- Tour 2 years, 1 month
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Rifle
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 19 ReflectionsDeputy Sheriff Lewis,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)
July 22, 2024
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