Police Officer John Terrell Bamsch, Houston Police Department, Texas

Police Officer John Terrell Bamsch

Houston Police Department, Texas

End of Watch Thursday, January 30, 1975

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John Terrell Bamsch

Police Officer Johnny Bamsch was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a suspect during a robbery-in-progress call at a convenience store at Yale and Norview at 1 a.m.

As he and his partner pursued the suspects, gunfire was exchanged, and Officer Bamsch was struck in the shoulder. He was transported to Parkway Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

One of the suspects, 18, hit with a shotgun blast in the back, fired by his partner, was hospitalized in serious condition. The other two escaped. The suspect, 18, also the killer, was convicted of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison. As of January 1, 2022, he was still in prison.

Officer Bamsch was a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran and had served with the Houston Police Department for two and a half years. He was survived by his expectant wife and parents.

Bio

Age 27
Tour 2 years, 6 months
Badge 1388
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to life

arrest attempt, robbery

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Bamsch,
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 during the Vietnam War. 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 30, 2025