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 92 ReflectionsI was an on duty medic at Madigan Army Medical when this Ofc
came in. Sadly I could see he was already gone on arrival. Never forgot that day and became a police officer myself for almost 20yrs now. RIP!
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Clearwater Police
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