George William Raffield Jr., a 21-year-old male of Caucasian ethnicity, was an undercover police officer with the Midlothian Police Department in Texas. On October 23, 1987, he was tragically murdered while working undercover at Midlothian High School. Raffield had been posing as a student to investigate drug activities on campus.
The incident occurred when two students, who had discovered Raffield's true identity, lured him to a secluded area off FM875, several miles south of
Midlothian. As they were preparing to leave, one of the students shot Raffield in the back of the head, killing him instantly. His body was discovered the following day during a massive search.
The two students responsible for Raffield's death were arrested and charged with murder. The suspected gunman, a 16-year-old, and his accomplice, a 17-year-old, were arraigned on capital murder charges. Additionally, a 23-year-old woman was charged with a misdemeanor in connection with the slaying. The two students who directly committed the murder were sentenced to 45 years in prison, while two other accomplices received lesser sentences.
Raffield's death sent shockwaves through the community and had a lasting impact on those who knew him. He was remembered as a dedicated officer who had served with the Midlothian Police Department for only a year, but had previously worked with the Wilmer and Red Oak Police Departments. He was survived by his parents and sister.
The case remains a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers, especially those working undercover. Raffield's legacy continues to be honored by those who knew him and by the community he served.
