Police Officer Seneca Bailey Darden, Norfolk Police Department, Virginia

Police Officer Seneca Bailey Darden

Norfolk Police Department, Virginia

End of Watch Sunday, May 21, 2006

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Seneca Bailey Darden

Officer Seneca Darden was accidentally shot and killed by another officer after responding to the scene of a shooting on Nicholson Street at approximately 11:30 pm.

Officer Darden and his partner were working a plainclothes burglary detail nearby and responded to the location after additional units were requested to search for the suspect in the public housing development.

A large group of residents had gathered in the courtyard as the officers searched for the suspect. Officer Darden and two uniformed officers were taking a man into custody at gunpoint when another officer approached and observed Officer Darden holding his service weapon. Not recognizing Officer Darden, the officer ordered him to drop the weapon. The officer then fired his weapon, striking Officer Darden several times.

The suspect involved in the original shooting was apprehended a short time later.

Officer Darden had served with the Norfolk Police Department for four years and was assigned to the 3rd Precinct. He is survived by his wife and 5-year-old daughter.

Bio

Age 25
Tour 4 years
Badge 1297

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)

plainclothes, mistaken identity, shots fired call

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It's funny how when you look back at certain times in your life, certain individuals stand out in fond memories. Seneca Darden was one of those people. I fondly remember Seneca coming into the Norfolk Police Academy, light-hearted, without a care in the world, much to the frustration of the academy staff. I also remember how many punishment push ups and PT we caught due to his "antics". It's just who he was, I got a kick out of it. No matter what, he always maintained that smile, cracked jokes, and just had a good natured attitude. I was shocked when I learned of his passing, and attended his celebration of life ceremony. Although our time together was brief, he made an impression, and has not been forgotten. Rest well, Brother....

Erik Priebe
Fellow Norfolk Police Academy Class 69 alum

August 1, 2024