Patrolman William L. Smith, DeQuincy Police Department, Louisiana

Patrolman William L. Smith

DeQuincy Police Department, Louisiana

End of Watch Tuesday, August 30, 1966

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William L. Smith

Patrolman Bill Smith was shot and killed after responding to a disturbance call on Harrison Street. Several residents had called the police department to complain about a man walking down the street and cursing loudly.

When Patrolman Smith located the man on 4th Street, he was immediately attacked. The man started striking Patrolman Smith with a stick, severely injuring him. Patrolman Smith drew his revolver and shot the suspect four times. The wounds, however, did not stop the suspect, who continued beating Patrolman Smith, who dropped his service revolver. The suspect picked up the gun and shot the patrolman in the back as he lay on the ground.

The suspect was taken into custody following the shooting. He died from his wounds five days later.

Patrolman Smith served with the DeQuincy Police Department for ten years in a part-time capacity. He was survived by his wife, two daughters, and three sons.

Bio

Age 57
Tour 10 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Shot and killed

noise complaint, suspicious person

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I am Gerald Smith, Patrolman William L. "Bill" Smith was my Grandfather. I did not get to know him. He was killed on August 30, 1966; I was born on February 6, 1967. I have followed in my grandfather's footsteps, becoming both a law enforcement officer and a firefighter. I began my law enforcement career over 20 years ago as a part-time patrol officer in Jackson, Louisiana, for the Marshal's office. I retire from the West Feliciana Parish Sheriff's Office after 15 years of service and now work full-time for the St. Francisville Police Department. I first began as a firefighter with the Ward 6 Fire Department in Calcasieu Parish, even before I began in law enforcement. I am now a firefighter for West Feliciana Fire District, the town of St. Francisville Fire Department, and Pointe Coupee Fire District 5. Rest in peace, Grandpaw. I have taken over for you.

Lt. Gerald Smith
St Francisville PD
September 23, 2024

Gerald Smith
St Francisville PD

September 24, 2024