On November 22, 1981, Officer Dennie Quay Enevold, a 33-year-old white male, responded to a call regarding a suspicious person and vehicle at the intersection of Ash Street and Woodcock Avenue in Hendersonville, North Carolina, at approximately 4:50 a.m. Upon arrival, Officer Enevold confronted the individual, leading to a physical altercation during which the suspect seized control of the officer's service weapon. The assailant then shot Officer Enevold and fled the scene.
Officer Enevold, who had served with the Hendersonville Police Department for nearly 16 months and was a United States Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran, succumbed to his injuries the following day, November 23, 1981. He was survived by his wife, father, brother, and sister.
Following an investigation, the suspect was apprehended, convicted of murder, and sentenced to life imprisonment on October 2, 1984. The individual remained incarcerated until their death on June 16, 2011.
In recognition of Officer Enevold's sacrifice, the City of Hendersonville dedicated a monument in his honor. Former Police Chief Larry Hesser emphasized Enevold's commitment to duty, honor, and community, urging current officers to uphold the same standards.
The Hendersonville Police Department continues to honor Officer Enevold's memory with annual ceremonies, ensuring that his dedication and service are not forgotten.
