Police Officer William Henry Burtt, Norfolk Police Department, Virginia

Police Officer William Henry Burtt

Norfolk Police Department, Virginia

End of Watch Tuesday, February 3, 1998

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William Henry Burtt

Police Officer William Burtt was shot and killed in Virginia Beach as he was attempting to protect a woman from being kidnapped while off duty.

Officer Burtt had befriended the woman who worked in his patrol district and was escorting her to run errands when her estranged husband attempted to kidnap her.

Officer Burtt exited his van and attempted to draw his weapon when the suspect opened fire on him, striking him several times. The suspect then stole the van but surrendered two days later. Officer Burtt's actions prevented the suspect from murdering his wife.

The suspect was convicted of murder and several other charges in connection with Officer Burtt's murder.

Officer Burtt had served with the Norfolk Police Department for nine years. He is survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

Age 40
Tour 9 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Convicted of murder

abduction, domestic, off duty

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Burtt,
On today, the 25th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the USMC. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!
A fellow LEO;former Marine

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

February 3, 2023