Chief of Police William Terrell Mantoth, Tehachapi Police Department, California

Chief of Police William Terrell Mantoth

Tehachapi Police Department, California

End of Watch Sunday, August 11, 1968

William Terrell Mantoth

Chief Mantoth was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a kidnap-rape suspect. Chief Mantoth and two other officers went to the suspect's home after receiving a warrant on him. As Chief Mantoth followed the man to a room the suspect suddenly dashed for a closet and Chief Mantoth attempted to stop him. The suspect whirled around and opened fire with a .22 caliber pistol, striking Chief Mantoth twice. One of the other officers shot and wounded the suspect.

The 22 year-old suspect was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to five years to life July 14, 1969. He was paroled March 18, 1976. On July 24, 1976, he was arrested in Bakersfield, California, after he kidnapped and brutally beat a woman.

Chief Mantoth had been Chief of Police for ten years. He was survived by his wife and son.

Bio

Age 40
Tour 10 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .22 caliber
Offender Paroled in 1976

Most Recent Reflection

View all 11 Reflections

Chief Mantoth,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Tehachapi. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

August 11, 2018