Sam Edward Etheredge Jr., a 34-year-old white male, tragically lost his life on December 25, 1980, in Daytona Beach, Florida. Officer Etheredge, who served with the Daytona Beach Police Department for ten years, was responding to a disturbance call at the Grandview Apartments located at 141 S. Grandview Avenue. Upon arrival, Officer Etheredge and a responding lieutenant encountered the suspect in his room.
The suspect opened fire, striking Officer Etheredge in the torso and wounding the lieutenant. Despite their injuries, both officers managed to return fire.
Officer Etheredge's death marked a significant and somber moment for the Daytona Beach Police Department, as he was the first officer to be killed in the line of duty in 35 years. The suspect responsible for this heinous act was subsequently convicted of Officer Etheredge's murder and sentenced to 75 years in prison. This conviction brought some measure of justice to the grieving family and the law enforcement community.
Officer Etheredge was survived by his wife and two daughters, who were left to cope with the devastating loss of a husband and father. The incident not only highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers but also underscored the profound impact such tragedies have on their families and communities. The memory of Officer Etheredge's dedication and sacrifice continues to be honored by those who knew him and by the broader community he served.
