Chief of Police Bernice Cameron, Carthage Police Department, North Carolina

Chief of Police Bernice Cameron

Carthage Police Department, North Carolina

End of Watch Sunday, March 15, 1953

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Bernice Cameron

Police Chief Bernice Cameron was shot in the face with a shotgun as he sat in his car. He was killed instantly.

Chief Cameron was ambushed and fired upon by three guns including the fatal shotgun blast, a handgun, and a pistol when he and another officer went to investigate a reported disturbance on a darkened street at 1:30 a.m.

Eight suspects fled the scene. Six were arrested within a few days in Carthage. The other two were arrested in Sabine, West Virginia a month later.

Three of the suspects were sentenced to life in prison. One was paroled on March 13, 1979. The other five received sentences ranging from 15 to 20 years.

Chief Cameron had served with the Carthage Police Department for only 4 months. He had previously served in law enforcement for nine years.

He is survived by his wife and child.

Bio

Age 47
Tour 9 years, 4 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun; 12 gauge
Offender Sentenced to life

ambush

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Most Recent Reflection

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My dear brother in law Bernice. I never got the chance to meet you. But your sweet wife and daughter missed you so much. They are both in heaven with you now. Rest in Peace.
Thank you for your service. It is a shame how so many of our law enforcement officers are killed in the line of duty.

Esther Smith Coley Kinder
Sister in Law

September 27, 2020