Detective Paul Burgess Whitehead, Lincoln Police Department, Nebraska

Detective Paul Burgess Whitehead

Lincoln Police Department, Nebraska

End of Watch Thursday, August 10, 1967

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Paul Burgess Whitehead

Detective Whitehead was shot and killed after he and another officer stopped a suspicious vehicle near the intersection of 37th Street and O Street. Unbeknownst to the officers the vehicle was stolen and the three occupants were escaped convicts from Indiana. As they approached the vehicle one of the suspects opened fire with a shotgun, mortally wounding Detective Whitehead. Detective Whitehead was able to return fire and wound one of the suspects.

All three were apprehended and sentenced to life. One was paroled October 9, 1987. Another one died in prison May 11, 1989.

Detective Whitehead was a U.S Navy veteran and had served with the Lincoln Police Department for four years. He is survived by his wife, son, and two daughters.

Bio

Age 30
Tour 4 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Sentenced to life

stolen vehicle, traffic stop

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Most Recent Reflection

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Burgess, as he was affectionately known in the family, was my uncle. I was not quite 2 years old when he was killed, so I have no personal memories of him. But my mother spoke often and lovingly of him. The whole family was very proud of his service, and were naturally devastated by his untimely death. I was unaware of this website until today, and am thankful for the information provided here and the remembrances and well wishes of those who posted messages. This is a beautiful way to memorialize those who fell in the line of duty - God Bless all of you who devote your lives to others, as well as those who civilians who help keep my uncle's memory alive. Be well!

Larry Bencivengo
Nephew

July 24, 2022