Trooper Charles Eugene Campbell, Florida Highway Patrol, Florida

Trooper Charles Eugene Campbell

Florida Highway Patrol, Florida

End of Watch Saturday, November 16, 1974

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Charles Eugene Campbell

Trooper Charles Campbell was shot and killed after being abducted while making a traffic stop in Perry, Florida.

After taking Trooper Campbell hostage, the suspect used the patrol car siren to pull over a motorist and take his car. Trooper Campbell was found tied up and shot to death in Georgia along with the motorist. The suspect was later shot and killed by a Georgia Bureau of Investigation agent after he tried to gain control of another officer's weapon after being arrested.

It was later discovered that the suspect was a serial killer responsible for at least 18 murders, including Trooper Campbell's murder, beginning in July of that same year. He had been released on parole in May 1974 but returned to jail after stabbing a man. He escaped jail on July 26, 1974.

Trooper Campbell had served with the Florida Highway Patrol for nine years. He was survived by his wife and son.

Bio

Age 35
Tour 9 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Location Georgia
Weapon Handgun; .357 caliber
Offender Shot and killed

abducted, convicted felon, escapee, parolee, traffic stop

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Trooper Campbell.

I am a retired police officer with Surrey Police in the UK. As a career Detective, the following juxtaposition is unimaginable and hard to reconcile

In a strange coincidence, I googled my name in Wikipedia and discovered, to my astonishment. My name sake, was a serial killer, who very sadly took the lives of many including yours. As someone who has always been passionate about policing and serving the community this revelation is extraordinary.

From one police officer to another, may I pay my own respects to you, and offer my deepest sympathy to your family.

Paul J. Knowles
Surrey Police, Great Britain (Retired)

February 8, 2025