Deputy Sheriff Melvin C. Colebrook, Jr., Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office, Utah

Deputy Sheriff Melvin C. Colebrook, Jr.

Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office, Utah

End of Watch Saturday, March 10, 1973

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Melvin C. Colebrook, Jr.

Deputy Sheriff Melvin Colebrook was shot and killed with his partner's weapon after the two officers responded to a domestic disturbance in an affluent part of the Valley.

The subject was found holding his child in an upstairs room. After the child was removed, the subject began to fight with the deputies. During the struggle the man obtained control of Deputy Colebrook's partner's weapon and shot Deputy Colebrook in the head. The partner was able to overpower the suspect and place him in custody.

The suspect, who was a bank vice president, was released the next day on extremely low bail. During a highly publicized trial, the suspect was acquitted of murdering Deputy Colebrook.

Deputy Sheriff Melvin Colebrook was a United States Army Korean War veteran and had served with the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office for 1 year. He is survived by a wife and three children.

He is buried in Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park in Millcreek, Salt Lake County, Utah.

Bio

Age 41
Tour 1 year
Badge 100
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Acquitted

domestic

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Mel was my uncle. He used to pick me up to babysit for him and and his wife Jean. I always enjoyed the ride. Lead foot. I remember how horrified I was when he was murdered. He left behind 3 beautiful children and a wife who adored him. Thank you Mel for all you accomplished in a life cut short.

Karen Earl
Niece

March 11, 2025