Sergeant Richard Sam Howard, a 36-year-old male from Kissimmee, FL, tragically lost his life on August 18, 2017. Sgt. Howard, who was of African American descent, was a dedicated officer with the Kissimmee Police Department, where he had served for ten years. On the night of August 18, 2017, Sgt. Howard and his partner, Officer Matthew Baxter, were responding to reports of suspicious activity in the area of Palmway Street and Cypress Street.
During their investigation, a confrontation ensued, leading to both officers being shot. Officer Baxter succumbed to his injuries on the night of the incident, while Sgt. Howard passed away the following afternoon at Osceola Regional Medical Center.
The suspect, Everett Miller, was apprehended approximately two hours after the shooting by members of the Osceola County Sheriff's Office. Miller, who was found in possession of two handguns at the time of his arrest, was later charged with the murders of Sgt. Howard and Officer Baxter. In September 2019, Miller was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder. The jury recommended the death penalty in November 2019, and in 2022, a judge officially sentenced Miller to death.
The case garnered significant attention, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement officers. Sgt. Howard, a U.S. Army veteran, was remembered for his dedication to his community and his family. He is survived by his wife and one child. The legal proceedings surrounding his death were marked by appeals and motions, but ultimately, justice was served with the death penalty sentence for Miller. The community of Kissimmee continues to honor the memory of Sgt. Howard and Officer Baxter, recognizing their sacrifice and commitment to public safety.
