Carl Irving Levin, a 31-year-old male police officer of the Harker Heights Police Department, tragically lost his life on August 7, 1978. Officer Levin was investigating a suspicious person in connection with an arson case when he encountered the suspect near North Amy Lane and East Valley Road. As he stepped out of his patrol vehicle, the suspect shot him point blank in the left temple with a .25 caliber pistol.
Officer Levin was found dead minutes later, still clutching his duty weapon.
The suspect, Thomas Andy Barefoot, was quickly identified and arrested. Barefoot was charged with capital murder and, after a thorough investigation and legal proceedings, was executed for the crime on October 30, 1984. The case drew significant attention, and Officer Levin's name is honored on both the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C. and the Texas Peace Officers Memorial in Austin. In recognition of his sacrifice, a city park in Harker Heights was named in his honor.
Officer Levin's death was a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face daily. His dedication and ultimate sacrifice are remembered and respected by the community and fellow officers alike.
