Officer Michael David Stewart

Michael David Stewart

Officer Michael Stewart was shot and killed when he and another officer responded to a robbery and sexual battery in progress at a restaurant on Atlantic Boulevard. The other officer was shot and wounded.

One suspect was killed, and the other suspect was apprehended and executed for the murder on January 30, 1985.

Officer Stewart's death prompted a citizen campaign to donate money to purchase bulletproof vests. His partner survived when the bullet hit a ballpoint pen in his breast pocket, deflected it around his ribcage, and saved his life.

Officer Stewart had served with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office for only one year. He was survived by his wife, parents, and siblings.