Oregon State Police, Oregon
End of Watch Thursday, May 22, 1980
Add to My HeroesJames D. Shepherd
Sergeant James Shepherd was shot and killed by a lone assailant in rural Clatsop County near Highway 30 at approximately 7:00 p.m.
Sergeant Shepherd and another off-duty officer were in the area chopping wood. After shooting Sergeant Shepherd, the suspect took his motorcycle and fled the area.
The suspect had been released from prison. He was apprehended six days later. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life. He was denied parole in 2022 and 2025.
In 2007, U.S. Marine Corps North Coast Detachment 1228 created the Clatsop County Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award in honor of Sergeant Shepherd.
Sergeant Shepherd was a United States Air Force veteran and served in the Korean War. He had served with the Oregon State Police Department for 23 years and was commander of the Astoria Patrol Office. He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter.
Bio
- Age 49
- Tour 23 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Rifle; .30-.30
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 12 ReflectionsAs I am preparing to watch my youngest son graduate from high school, I think of you and know that you are watching over all of us. I am confident that you are helping to guide all 3 of my kids, your grandchildren, on their paths in life. I wish so much you could be here with us to share these moments together.... Love you Dad.
Sandra
Daughter
June 7, 2016
Recent LODD Deaths
Police Officer Caleb Abney
Hahira Police Department, GA
EOW: February 19, 2026
Trooper Michael Diego
Florida Highway Patrol, FL
EOW: February 18, 2026
Police Officer Brian Elliott
Beech Grove Police Department, IN
EOW: February 16, 2026
Trooper Hunter R. Bennett
Arizona Department of Public Safety, AZ
EOW: February 4, 2026
Sergeant Robert G. Porfert
New York City Police Department, NY
EOW: March 21, 2025
Police Officer Timothy J. Keane
New York City Police Department, NY
EOW: June 8, 2025
Deputy Sheriff Joe Crumpton
Spalding County Sheriff's Office, GA
EOW: December 9, 2025
Deputy Sheriff Richard A. Haggard
Lee County Sheriff's Department, MS
EOW: February 2, 2026
Police Officer Senior Pradeep Tamang
Gwinnett County Police Department, GA
EOW: February 1, 2026


