Police Officer Steven Robert Rutherford, Newport News Police Department, Virginia

Police Officer Steven Robert Rutherford

Newport News Police Department, Virginia

End of Watch Wednesday, January 12, 1994

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Steven Robert Rutherford

Police Officer Steven Rutherford was shot and killed while working undercover disguised as a pizza delivery person in anticipation of a robbery.

That night, several juveniles robbed him at gun point at a condo complex on Thorncliff Drive. As he was complying with their demands to lay on the ground, his jacket rose up and exposed his gun and one of the juveniles opened fire, striking him twice. Officer Rutherford got up and chased the juveniles approximately 200 yards before he collapsed as his partner fired from the delivery vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The suspects were arrested a short time later.

Officer Rutherford was a U.S Navy Reserves veteran and had previously served as an auxiliary officer for 17 months and had served as a full time officer for approximately 6-1/2 years. He is survived by his wife, mother, father, sister, and brother.

Bio

Age 28
Tour 8 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Tuesday, January 11, 1994
Weapon Handgun; .25 caliber
Offender Not available

robbery, undercover, juvenile offender

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Rutherford,
On today, the 30th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Navy Reserve. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Fair Winds And Following Seas

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

January 12, 2024