Sergeant John Holcombe Woodson, Southern Railway Police Department, Railroad Police

Sergeant John Holcombe Woodson

Southern Railway Police Department, Railroad Police

End of Watch Monday, August 5, 1946

Add to My Heroes

John Holcombe Woodson

Sergeant Holcombe Woodson was shot and killed at Catlett, Virginia, as he and another railroad detective approached a man to question him about freight thefts. Before the detectives even spoke to the man, he produced a .22 caliber handgun and opened fire.

One of the shots struck Sergeant Woodson in the neck, mortally wounding him. He was transported to Warrenton Hospital where he succumbed to the wound.

The suspect fled but was arrested. He was subsequently convicted of murder and executed.

Sergeant Woodson had served with the Southern Railroad Police Department for 31 years. He was survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 63
Tour 31 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Location Virginia
Weapon Handgun; .22 caliber
Offender Executed

larceny

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 9 Reflections

Sgt. Woodson,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice as a Law Enforcement Officer. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

August 5, 2021