Detective Alexander Finlayson Mavity, Billings Police Department, Montana

Detective Alexander Finlayson Mavity

Billings Police Department, Montana

End of Watch Tuesday, February 14, 1989

Alexander Finlayson Mavity

Detective Alexander Mavity was shot and killed while attempting to recapture a prisoner who was attempting to escape custody.

The man had been arrested on a parole violation after officers responded to his home for a domestic disturbance call. The man fled as they walked into the rear of the police station.

Detective Mavity chased the subject into an alley and began to struggle with him. The man was able to gain control of Detective Mavity's service weapon during the struggle and shot him. The man was then shot and killed by Detective Mavity as they continued to struggle for the weapon.

Detective Mavity had served with the Billings Police Department for eight years. He was survived by his wife, daughter, sister, and parents.

Bio

Age 28
Tour 8 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Shot and killed

domestic, escape

Most Recent Reflection

View all 22 Reflections

I remember when this happened. I was a brand-new reporter at the Billings Gazette. We were sad and some were crying this night. I am so sorry that Alex didn't get to be with his family after this. Thank you, Detective Mavity, for your brave service to the Billings community.

Jill Sundby Van Alstyne

Jill Sundby Van Alstyne
newspaper reporter

March 31, 2017