In a tragic turn of events on January 14, 1980, United States Secret Service Special Agent Perry S. Watkins was shot and killed inside the agency's Denver field office. The male agent, a nine-year veteran of the Secret Service with a total of thirteen years in law enforcement, was confronted by a man who had entered the office and was speaking incoherently to the agents present.
During their conversation with the man, who identified himself as Joseph Hugh Ryan, the agents conducted a
background check. This check revealed a troubled history, including multiple arrests for threatening presidents, a previous arrest at the White House gate, and a history of commitment to a mental institution. The agents also discovered that he had been arrested with a gun during a prior interview with the Secret Service. When asked if he was currently armed, Ryan admitted that he was.
While waiting for assistance from the Denver Police Department, Agent Watkins moved from his office toward the main entrance. At that moment, the suspect suddenly drew a. 45 caliber handgun. Agent Watkins immediately attempted to disarm him but was tragically shot in the chest. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, Agent Watkins and the other agents returned fire, and the suspect was killed at the scene. Agent Watkins was survived by his wife and two sons.
