Patrolman Benjamin Kyle Smith, Texas Department of Public Safety

Patrolman Benjamin Kyle Smith

Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol, Texas

End of Watch Monday, June 23, 1958

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Benjamin Kyle Smith

Patrolman Smith was shot and killed in Willis by a 14-year-old boy when he attempted to arrest him for motorcycle theft around 10:00 p.m. in Willis.

The youth claimed his shotgun discharged when he dropped it as Patrolman Smith, a juvenile officer, and a constable entered his shack. The boy, who had been in trouble before, was taken into custody by the other two officers. Additional information about the suspect is unavailable since he was a juvenile at the time of the incident.

Patrolman Smith was transported to a hospital in Conroe, where he succumbed to his wounds the next morning.

Patrolman Smith was a United States Korean War veteran and served with the Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol for two years. He was survived by his wife and two daughters.

Bio

Age 31
Tour 2 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Sunday, June 22, 1958
Weapon Shotgun; 410 gauge
Offender In custody

arrest, arrest attempt, juvenile offender

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Most Recent Reflection

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Patrolman Smith,
On today, the 67th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served during the Korean War. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

June 23, 2025