Pierce County Sheriff's Department, Washington
End of Watch Monday, October 16, 1995
Add to My HeroesJohn Bananola
Deputy Sheriff John Bananola was shot and killed while serving a narcotics-related search warrant at a house at 902 E 52nd Street in Tacoma.
Deputy Bananola was the first of a six-man team to enter the house. He was confronted by the suspect and identified himself as an officer. The suspect fired at least ten shots with a 9mm handgun, striking Deputy Bananola nine times. Deputy Bananola was able to return fire and struck the suspect in the groin.
The suspect was found guilty of drug charges but there was a hung jury on the first-degree murder charges. A second trial found the suspect guilty of second-degree murder and he was sentenced to a total of 40 years. During an appeal of the conviction, he was found guilty and given an even longer sentence.
Deputy Bananola was a U.S. Air Force veteran and served with the Pierce County Sheriff's Department for eight years. He is survived by his daughter and stepson.
Bio
- Age 36
- Tour 8 years
- Badge 271
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun; 9 mm
- Offender Sentenced to 40 years
Most Recent Reflection
View all 86 ReflectionsMy only memories of John are the best. He was my sensei and taught Taekwondo for no money in his own freetime to young kids at the high schools after hours. I wish i could have learned more from hím.
Because I lost that role model at 13, i have become a career criminal with no future and messed up so many times , my life can not be fixed. Hope some of the officers now would stop powertrippin so much and be a role model to some of these kids maybe they would save a few of them from the life ive lived.
Sincerely,
Danny Foster Tabb
Dated; 3-7-2020
C.E.O. TRUTH FACTOR NEWS MEDIA
INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALIST
March 7, 2020
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