Police Officer Dess K. Phipps, Compton Police Department, California

Police Officer Dess K. Phipps

Compton Police Department, California

End of Watch Friday, October 12, 1962

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Dess K. Phipps

Police Officer Dess Phipps was killed in an automobile crash during a high-speed pursuit of two subjects wanted for burglary.

Another vehicle struck Officer Phipps' patrol car at the intersection of Artesia Boulevard and Wilmington Avenue. The vehicle then struck two other vehicles. A second accident then occurred when another car collided with several cars that were stopped for the first crash. One driver involved in the second accident was also killed.

The subjects in the vehicle being pursued fled the scene but were later apprehended. They were charged with murder and burglary.

Officer Phipps was a United States World War II Navy veteran who served with the Compton Police Department for four years. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, two sons, parents, and two brothers.

Bio

Age 37
Tour 4 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Vehicle pursuit
Weapon Automobile
Offender Charged with murder

vehicle pursuit

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Phipps,
On today, the 60th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Navy during World War II. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Fair Winds And Following Seas

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

October 12, 2022