Sergeant Merlin Eugene Brune, Jr., Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, Louisiana

Sergeant Merlin Eugene Brune, Jr.

Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, Louisiana

End of Watch Tuesday, July 12, 1977

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Merlin Eugene Brune, Jr.

Sergeant Merlin Brune was shot and killed while investigating a domestic disturbance in the 500 block of Oak Avenue in Bridge City.

The subject had gone to his estranged girlfriend's home in Westwego, caused a disturbance, and left her home with the groceries that she recently purchased. Police officers from the Westwego Police Department responded but requested that the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office follow up because the suspect was living outside their jurisdiction in Bridge City.

The subject was approached by deputies as he arrived at his home in Bridge City and retreated inside his home. As Sergeant Brune and several other officers were trying to talk the subject into coming out of his house, he opened fire through his front door, killing Sergeant Brune. The subject surrendered several minutes later.

The suspect was found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to 21 years in prison.

Sergeant Brune was a United States Navy veteran and served with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office for 12 years. Sergeant Brune was expected to receive his degree in Criminal Justice from Our Lady of Holy Cross College the same day. He was survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

Age 37
Tour 12 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Rifle; .22 caliber
Offender Sentenced to 21 years

disturbance, domestic, theft

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Most Recent Reflection

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Sergeant Brune or I guess I could say Uncle Merlin as I referred to him as an eight year old who was related to him in marriage only. My stepdad was his cousin. A long time has passed but throughout the years I would think of him and that day. My Dad was in so much pain at the lost of you so it was clear that you two were close. I've told the story so many times, in fact that's what brought me here today. One of my workers had a similar story. One last note. I remember bailing one of my cousins from jail and I was looking at the photos of fallen officers on the wall. "Uncle" Merlin was front and center. God bless and I have been honored to have you in memory all these years.

Curtis Liner
Cousin in marriage only

May 24, 2021