Patrolman William E. Smith, Denver Police Department, Colorado

Patrolman William E. Smith

Denver Police Department, Colorado

End of Watch Thursday, January 23, 1975

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William E. Smith

Police Officer William Smith was shot and killed while he and his partner responded to a disturbance at a bar on Federal Boulevard at 2:11 a.m.

Unbeknownst to the officers, two suspects were inside committing an armed robbery at the time. As Officer Smith opened the door, one of the men inside opened fire, fatally wounding him.

Both subjects were later apprehended. One of the suspects suffered a gunshot wound and died a month later. The second suspect was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Patrolman Smith was a United States Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran and had served with the Denver Police Department for five years. He was survived by his parents.

Bio

Age 28
Tour 5 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Shot and killed; Life in prison

robbery

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Officer Smith,
On today, the 50th 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 USMC in Vietnam-especially when you earned the Silver Star which is the 3rd highest award for bravery in the U.S. Armed Forces. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

January 23, 2025