Corporal Robert Glen Owen, aged 40, was a dedicated officer with the Erie Police Department in Pennsylvania. On the night of December 28, 1980, he was shot and killed while on duty behind a warehouse on West 18th Street near Cranberry Street. His body was discovered early the next morning, December 29, 1980, with a single bullet wound to the chest. The murder weapon was identified as his own service revolver, a Colt Trooper Mark III .357, although it was not immediately found at the scene.
The circumstances surrounding Corporal Owen's death were controversial and sparked significant debate. Investigators found evidence suggesting a struggle had taken place before he was shot, including his jacket and shirt condition, keys, and a set of handcuffs with one cuff partially open. Despite extensive investigations, no suspects were ever identified or apprehended in connection with his death. The case remains unsolved to this day, and the murder weapon was eventually recovered with traces of Corporal Owen's blood on it, indicating it was fired at close range.
The investigation faced numerous challenges, including a tainted crime scene and allegations of police corruption. The initial response to the scene was compromised, with evidence being destroyed and the area being washed down by a fire rig, which further complicated the investigation. There were also conflicting theories about how Corporal Owen died, with some suggesting it might have been a suicide due to his involvement in a prior investigation of a stolen diamond ring. However, this theory was debunked by witness statements and further investigation.
Corporal Owen was a United States Navy veteran and had served with the Erie Police Department for nine and a half years. He was survived by his wife and son. The Erie community continues to remember and honor his service, hoping that one day justice will be served for his tragic death.
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