Clark Murell Rosenbalm Jr., a 28-year-old male, was a Patrol Deputy with the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office in Texas. On the night of December 4, 1983, Deputy Rosenbalm was on routine patrol near Old Decatur Road in Saginaw, TX, when he came across two vehicles parked on the side of the road. Suspecting a drug deal in progress, he exited his vehicle to investigate.
As Deputy Rosenbalm approached, the suspects attempted to flee, and a struggle ensued. During the altercation, one of the suspects shot Deputy Rosenbalm with a .357 caliber handgun. Despite wearing a bulletproof vest, the bullet penetrated and fatally wounded him. Deputy Rosenbalm was the first Tarrant County Sheriff's Office employee killed in the line of duty in almost 40 years.
Law enforcement officials quickly apprehended the suspects involved in the drug deal. The individual responsible for shooting Deputy Rosenbalm was later arrested and charged with murder. After a legal process, the suspect was convicted and sentenced to death. In 1999, the suspect was executed by the State of Texas for the murder of Deputy Rosenbalm.
Deputy Rosenbalm was survived by his wife, and his death was a significant loss to the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office and the community. His sacrifice is remembered and honored by those who continue to serve and protect.
