Police Officer Johnny Orville Harris, Muskegon Heights Police Department, Michigan

Police Officer Johnny Orville Harris

Muskegon Heights Police Department, Michigan

End of Watch Wednesday, June 25, 1975

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Johnny Orville Harris

Police Officer Johnny Harris was shot and fatally wounded and his partner was critically wounded while responding to a man with gun call at a local residence.

A third officer shot and wounded the suspect. Officer Harris died at a local hospital the following day. Officer Harris' partner, the department's first female officer, recovered from her wounds.

The suspect, an ex-convict, was convicted of murder. He died in prison on September 15th, 1976.

The shooting occurred on Officer Harris' 25th birthday.

Officer Harris had served with the Muskegon Heights Police Department for two years. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

Age 25
Tour 2 years
Badge 17

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Tuesday, June 24, 1975
Weapon Rifle
Offender Died in prison

weapons violation

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Officer Harris,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens Muskegon Heights. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

June 25, 2025