Police Officer James Arland Rowland, Jr., Palmer Police Department, Alaska

Police Officer James Arland Rowland, Jr.

Palmer Police Department, Alaska

End of Watch Saturday, May 15, 1999

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James Arland Rowland, Jr.

Police Officer James Rowland was shot and killed while checking on a person who was slumped over the wheel of a pickup truck at the Carrs Quality Center parking lot at 535 Evergreen Avenue in Palmer.

During the check at 1:30 a.m., a struggle ensued, and shots were fired. Officer Rowland was struck and fatally wounded but was able to return fire and wound the suspect. A paramedic who was riding along with Officer Rowland witnessed the shooting and called for assistance. Officer Rowland was the only officer on duty at the time of the incident.

The suspect was sentenced to the maximum sentence of 99 years.

Officer Rowland was a United States Navy veteran and had served with the Palmer Police Department for three years. He is survived by his wife and 5-year-old son.

Bio

Age 30
Tour 9 years
Badge 9G-15
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Sentenced to 99 years

suspicious vehicle, welfare check

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Most Recent Reflection

View all 46 Reflections

It still seems like yesterday at times. Outside with my dad on the front deck and you stopping by to check on how he's doing. Always with a smile and a respectful handshake. My dad thought you were the best of the best. I used to call you "Buckethead". I absolutely loved you. You were sure to leave us in stitches each time. So much goodness radiated from you. Helpful when medics needed an extra hand or a Hero when things might go south. You always showed up sans cape but with a huge presence. My Blue Line Hero!

I can't even begin to explain how much you have been missed. People are always ready to talk about you. Many memories are still clearly alive. Its nice. You wouldn't believe what the department looks like now. Pooky is a Sgt. and detective. I'm so proud of him. I can definitely see him as Chief one day. Duane is Chief rightnow. There are a bunch of women in the squad who are incredible. So many changes. It's a wonderful department.

I am still working on going to the Memorial service in Anchorage during Law Enforcement week. My PTSD still has a tight grip on me though. I see your face from that night. I remember screaming at you to open your eyes. I remember yelling at the Trooper to help remove your vest and he grabbed my hand and said it was too late. I said some nasty words. You know me. I tried everything. Everything. The doctor at the hospital even indulged my impossible hope. No one wanted to let you go really.

Thanksgiving is no longer a thing for me. Jared passed away in 2021. All my sunshine and laughter is gone. Please keep an eye on Chip. He's working for WPD. He's close to retirement.
I pray your family has a blessed Thanksgiving and a cheery Christmas season. I miss you my friend. You will never be forgotten.
HEROES NEVER TRULY DIE

Ulla R Stice
EMT III, CHIEF RET.
MSB-DES PALMER, ALASKA
LEO Mom and PROUD SUPPORTER

November 27, 2024