On June 30, 1979, Patrol Officer Roscoe Lee, aged 46, of the Jacksonville Police Department in Texas, tragically lost his life in the line of duty. Officer Lee, a dedicated officer with 13 years of service, responded to a disturbance call at a pool hall located at the corner of Lincoln Street and Main Street. Upon arrival, the officers encountered a man with a shotgun who was pacing back and forth in front of the business.
The officers took cover and attempted to persuade the man to put
down his weapon. Officer Lee took cover behind a patrol car, but at one point, he raised up to get a clearer view of the suspect. The suspect then raised the shotgun and fired a shot in the direction of Officer Lee's vehicle. The shot went through the open windows of the patrol car and struck Officer Lee in the face, fatally wounding him. He was pronounced dead at the hospital shortly after the incident.
The suspect, a 21-year-old man, was apprehended at the scene and later charged with capital murder. He was eventually convicted and sentenced to prison for the crime. Officer Lee left behind a wife, Virgie Lee, and four daughters. His death was a significant loss to the Jacksonville Police Department and the community he served.
Officer Roscoe Lee's dedication and sacrifice are remembered and honored by his colleagues and the community. His legacy lives on through the memories of those who knew him and the impact he made during his service.
