Detective Michael Smith Phillips, Virginia Beach Police Department, Virginia

Detective Michael Smith Phillips

Virginia Beach Police Department, Virginia

End of Watch Thursday, August 7, 2008

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Michael Smith Phillips

Detective Michael Phillips was shot and killed while conducting an undercover buy-bust narcotics operation in the Green Run Shopping Center at 3312 Holland Road in Virginia Beach.

During an arranged meet, Detective Phillips met with two suspects. While Detective Phillips spoke with one of the suspects, the second suspect approached and opened fire, striking the officer multiple times. The team of investigative officers were able to detain both suspects. Detective Phillips died on the scene from the gunshot wounds.

Both men were charged with murder. One of the subjects pleaded guilty to murder in December 2010 and was sentenced to life in prison. The second suspect was convicted of murder in October 2011 and subsequently sentenced to 68 years in prison.

Detective Phillips was a United States Air Force Desert Storm veteran who had served with the Virginia Beach Police Department for six years and previously served with the Hampton Police Department for three years. He is survived by his wife and two sons.

Bio

Age 37
Tour 9 years
Badge 754
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Pleaded guilty to capital murder

narcotics, undercover

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Most Recent Reflection

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Mike was a good friend and accross the street neighbor. We had just put up a fan in our bedroom the day before. I attended his funeral at Rock Church. I bet there were easely over a thousand officers in attendance from all over the country. It was breathtaking. I have not seen Terry nore the boys. I hope they are doing ok. Rest in pease my friend rest in peace.

don jackson
Good friend

February 23, 2025