Robert Buitrago, a 23-year-old male police officer of Hispanic ethnicity, tragically lost his life on January 15, 1994, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Officer Buitrago, who had served with the Winston-Salem Police Department for only six months, was shot and killed while attempting to stop a robbery at a grocery store where he was shopping. Despite being unarmed, he bravely confronted the suspect, who was armed with a handgun.
The suspect, identified as Thomas Larry, a 38-year-old African American male, was apprehended shortly after the incident. Larry was convicted of first-degree murder and armed robbery, and he was subsequently sentenced to death. As of June 9, 2023, Thomas Larry remains on death row.
The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. when Thomas Larry entered the Food Lion grocery store and demanded access to the safe. After taking approximately $1,700 from the safe, Larry attempted to flee the scene. Officer Buitrago, who was present as a customer, chased Larry outside the store. A struggle ensued, during which Larry fatally shot Buitrago with the handgun. Witnesses reported hearing one or more shots, and Buitrago succumbed to a single gunshot wound to the chest.
Following the shooting, witnesses identified Larry as the perpetrator, leading to his arrest. During the investigation, police found Larry hiding in a residence in Winston-Salem. He was later convicted and sentenced to death for the murder of Officer Buitrago.
Officer Robert Buitrago's dedication and bravery in the line of duty are remembered and honored by the Winston-Salem Police Department and the community. His sacrifice serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day.
