Patrolman Mercer Leroy Denby, Tifton Police Department, Georgia

Patrolman Mercer Leroy Denby

Tifton Police Department, Georgia

End of Watch Friday, August 28, 1942

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Mercer Leroy Denby

Patrolman Mercer Denby and Chief Joseph Henderson were shot and killed by a drunken soldier Patrolman Denby had arrested. The suspect was able to gain control of Patrolman Denby's weapon and shot him. The suspect then fled into the streets and started to fire the gun randomly.

Chief Henderson was shot when he rushed to the scene to assist Patrolman Denby. Patrolman Denby succumbed to his wounds 6 weeks later.

The suspect was sentenced to death and executed in the electric chair at Reidsville State Prison on May 28, 1943.

Bio

Age 25
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Saturday, July 18, 1942
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Executed

arrest

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Most Recent Reflection

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Patrolman Denby,
On today, the 80th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Tifton. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

August 28, 2022