On a September evening in 1980, the life of Frederick Glen Bailey, a 43-year-old White male, was cut short in the line of duty. An 18-year veteran of the Arkansas State Police, Trooper Bailey was known for his dedication and commitment to law enforcement. His final moments unfolded during a high-speed chase near West Memphis, Arkansas.
The pursuit began on the interstate near the interchange of I-55 and I-40, where Trooper Bailey attempted to pull over a vehicle exceeding speeds of 100
mph. The driver refused to comply, leading officers on a chase that ended on a highway exit in Marion. As Trooper Bailey and other officers approached the stopped car, the driver, a 21-year-old male, opened fire. A single shot struck Trooper Bailey in the chest.
Another trooper on the scene returned fire, wounding the assailant and allowing for his immediate arrest. The suspect was subsequently identified and faced legal proceedings. In 1981, he was convicted of the murder of Trooper Bailey and received a death sentence.
Years later, in 1997, a new trial was ordered. The suspect was once again convicted of murder, but this time the sentence was life in prison. As of late 2022, the individual responsible for the death of Trooper Frederick Glen Bailey remained incarcerated. The community and his fellow officers continue to remember his sacrifice.
