Patrolman Henry N. "Brownie" Russell, South Dakota Highway Patrol, South Dakota

Patrolman Henry N. "Brownie" Russell

South Dakota Highway Patrol, South Dakota

End of Watch Wednesday, November 19, 1958

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Henry N. "Brownie" Russell

Patrolman Henry Russell was killed in an automobile accident on Highway 85, four miles north of Belle Fourche, while returning to his duty station after participating in an all-night manhunt in Harding County.

His vehicle veered across the center line and struck a county highway department truck head-on.

Patrolman Russell had served with the South Dakota Highway Patrol for 10 years. His badge number was retired from service after his death.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour 10 years
Badge 11

Incident Details

Cause Automobile crash

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Brownie Russell Tribute

H.N. Brownie Russell, South Dakota Highway Patrolman. A co-worker and one of my best friends. We shared a duty station in Belle Fourche SD in the early 1950s. Brownie’s death and his life exemplified his dedication to the highest ideals of law enforcement and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. For example, he died on his day off after an all-night chase and aiding in the apprehension of a wanted felon. While not unusual in those years, three nights prior to Brownies death, he had been involved in a similar manhunt. Again, three days and nights with minimal sleep covering shifts for other officers.

H.N. Brownie Russell was a highly admired Police officer by all who knew him or worked with him. He was a well-liked man, highly respected and he was my best friend.

Jim Rumbolz, Sargent
Retired SD Highway Patrol (1952-1973)

Sargent James Rumbolz
SDHP

February 1, 2019