Sergeant Vernon Thomas Vanderpool, Palos Verdes Estates Police Department, California

Sergeant Vernon Thomas Vanderpool

Palos Verdes Estates Police Department, California

End of Watch Monday, February 14, 1994

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Vernon Thomas Vanderpool

Sergeant Tom Vanderpool and Captain Michael Tracy were shot and killed while attending a department staff training seminar at the Holiday Inn in Torrance, California.

The two officers were killed during an attempted robbery when a gunman burst into their conference room. Sergeant Vanderpool immediately lunged at the gunman and was shot. Captain Tracy was shot when he attempted to help Sergeant Vanderpool. The subject, who was wearing a bulletproof vest, choked to death on the vest while being subdued by other officers.

Sergeant Vanderpool had served with the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department for 13 years and had previously served with the Los Angeles Police Department for nine years.

Bio

Age 57
Tour 21 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Killed during struggle

robbery

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Sgt. Vanderpool,
On today, the 30th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice as a Law Enforcement Officer. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

February 14, 2024