Alexander Edward Thalmann, a 22-year-old white male, tragically lost his life on March 31, 2014, after succumbing to injuries sustained in a shooting incident three days earlier. Thalmann, a patrolman with the New Bern Police Department in North Carolina, was conducting a routine subject stop near the intersection of Oak Street and Elm Street on the night of March 28, 2014. During the stop, Thalmann was speaking to a man who had been riding a bicycle without lights.
As Thalmann continued to talk with the subject, the man suddenly fled on foot and then opened fire, striking Thalmann in the face and a second officer in the leg. Both officers were transported to a local hospital, where Thalmann remained until his passing on March 31, 2014.
The suspect, identified as Bryan Stallings, a 35-year-old male, was found to be in possession of drugs at the time of the incident. After fleeing from Thalmann, Stallings opened fire, leading to a confrontation with other officers who returned fire and killed him at the scene. The shooting of Stallings was later ruled justified by the authorities.
Thalmann, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, had only served with the New Bern Police Department for seven months. He was known for his dedication and service to the community. Thalmann is survived by his mother, twin sister, sister, and brother. His death was a significant loss to the New Bern Police Department and the community he served.
In the aftermath of Thalmann's death, the New Bern Police Department and the community honored his memory and service. Thalmann was buried in his hometown of Washington, in Beaufort County. Nearly five years after his death, the New Bern Parks and Recreation Department completed the construction of the Alexander Thalmann Ballfield at Lawson Creek Park to honor the fallen officer. The community continues to remember and pay tribute to Thalmann's sacrifice and dedication to public service.
