Officer Robert E. "Bob" Reed, California Highway Patrol, California

Officer Robert E. "Bob" Reed

California Highway Patrol, California

End of Watch Tuesday, October 8, 1957

Add to My Heroes

Robert E. "Bob" Reed

Officer Bob Reed was shot and killed by a prisoner he had just arrested for speeding and attempting to elude arrest on U.S. Highway 101 near Ventura.

The suspect crashed into a barricade and ran from the scene. Officer Reed captured him after a short chase. The 36-year-old suspect complained of an injured ankle, so Officer Reed transported him to the hospital in Ventura instead of the jail. He was ordered to the psychiatric ward when he grabbed a bottle of cleaning fluid and tried to drink it as he was being examined. As he was being transferred on a gurney, he grabbed Officer Reed's gun out of its holster and shot him.

The suspect was found to be insane and committed to a mental hospital. On July 28, 1960, he died at the state mental hospital in San Luis Obispo.

Officer Reed had served with the California Highway Patrol for four years. He was survived by his wife and two daughters.

Bio

Age 36
Tour 4 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Committed

arrest, prisoner custody

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 16 Reflections

Just want your family to know you are loved by all of us CHPYS. I was 12 years old when you were murdered by that crazy loser. I am so proud of you for your service to all of the citizens of Calif. You will always be remembered and i hope your family knows we thank you for saving your partners life and may God bless you and your family.

State Traffic Officer 7185
California Highway Patrol & US Marine

October 7, 2025