Patrol Officer Edmond N. Cannon, age 26, was a dedicated officer with the Charlotte Police Department in North Carolina. On November 23, 1981, Officer Cannon was tragically shot and killed while responding to a robbery at a convenience store. He had just pulled into the parking lot when he encountered armed suspects fleeing the scene. The suspects opened fire on him, striking him five times.
Officer Cannon, who had served with the agency for four years, was the first black Charlotte Police Officer killed in the line of duty.
The suspect responsible for Officer Cannon's death was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison on June 30, 1982. He died in prison on December 27, 1988. Officer Cannon was survived by his son, and his legacy continues to be honored by the law enforcement community.
The incident had a profound impact on the Charlotte Police Department and the broader law enforcement community. Officer Cannon's death served as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by police officers in the line of duty and led to increased awareness and training to better prepare officers for similar situations. His sacrifice is remembered and honored by his colleagues and the community he served.
