Amedicus Q. Howell III, a 33-year-old male, was a Corporal with the Collier County Sheriff's Office in Florida. On the night of March 29, 1983, Corporal Howell was tragically killed in the line of duty. The incident occurred following a high-speed pursuit of five suspects who had robbed a convenience store. The chase ended when the suspects' vehicle crashed into a parked bus on Boston Avenue in Immokalee. As Corporal Howell exited his patrol car, he was shot once above his vest by one of the suspects.
The suspects involved in the incident were apprehended at the scene. The two youngest suspects, both 17 years old, pleaded no contest to second-degree murder and were sentenced to 12 years in prison. Two other suspects were convicted of second-degree murder and received life sentences. The fifth suspect, a 28-year-old male who was identified as the triggerman, was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison.
Corporal Howell's death was a significant loss to the Collier County Sheriff's Office and the community he served. He had been with the Sheriff's Office for ten years and had previously served with the Fort Myers Police Department for two years. He was survived by his wife, son, mother, stepfather, father, stepmother, and brother. The community and his colleagues continue to honor his memory and sacrifice.
