Chief of Police W. L. Echols, Van Alstyne Police Department, Texas

Chief of Police W. L. Echols

Van Alstyne Police Department, Texas

End of Watch Thursday, March 21, 1929

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W. L. Echols

Chief Echols was shot and killed while making his normal rounds in the business district. He came across three men who were preparing to rob a bank and they shot him.

All three suspects were apprehended. Two were convicted of murder and sentenced to 99 years. On August 7, 1931, one was shot and killed when he attempted to escape from Eastham Prison Farm. The other suspect was pardoned by Governor Coke R. Stevenson on February 2, 1944.

Chief Echols had been with the agency for 46 years and is survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

Age 67
Tour 46 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Two sentenced to 99 years

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Most Recent Reflection

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Your heroism and service is honored today, the 83rd anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

March 21, 2012