Deputy Sheriff Lester Dewayne Tatum, Trinity County Sheriff's Office, Texas

Deputy Sheriff Lester Dewayne Tatum

Trinity County Sheriff's Office, Texas

End of Watch Wednesday, December 28, 2005

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Lester Dewayne Tatum

Deputy Sheriff Lester Tatum was killed in a vehicle crash while responding to a burglary in progress call.

The reporting party told the 911 operator that weapons were involved, and a woman was alone with two young children.

Deputy Tatum left Groveton for Carlisle with his lights and his siren activated, heading south on FM 355. As he entered a right-hand curve near Old Onalaska Road, his squad car left the road on the left-hand side. The car struck several pine trees, and the engine compartment caught fire. The fire was put out by members of the Groveton Volunteer Fire Department. Deputy Tatum died at the scene.

Deputy Tatum was the canine handler for Trinity County and had served with the Trinity County Sheriff's Office for only seven months. He had previously served with the Polk County Precinct 1 Constable's Office and had a total of 15 years of law enforcement service.

Deputy Tatum had served with the Trinity County Sheriff's Office for 15 years. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, parents, and two grandchildren.

Bio

Age 42
Tour 15 years
Badge 404

Incident Details

Cause Automobile crash

burglary

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Mr. Tatum, I never met you. But I recently met one of your daughters. She talks about you often. You truly made a lasting impact on her life. She lives each day to raise her boys how she thinks you would have. She’s doing pretty good I think. She’s had some rough times over the years, but you raised her to be strong and resilient. She’s an amazing woman. You did a great job, sir.
Wherever you are, you can rest knowing that you legacy lives strong through your daughters and grandchildren.
Well done, sir.

Jonathan
None

November 17, 2024