Gary Dale Wilson, aged 34, was a sergeant with the Duluth Police Department in Minnesota. On April 9, 1990, he responded to an armed assault call along with six other officers. The incident occurred at a local hotel where they intended to arrest the suspect. Upon knocking on the door and announcing themselves, the suspect immediately opened fire with a. 30 caliber military rifle. Sergeant Wilson was struck twice by rounds shot through the hotel wall, resulting in his death on April 10, 1990.
The suspect, whose name has not been disclosed in the sources, was wounded during the shootout as the officers returned fire. Another officer was also wounded in the exchange. The suspect was apprehended and later convicted of murder. He was sentenced to life in prison and died of natural causes while incarcerated on December 9, 2011.
Sergeant Wilson had served with the Duluth Police Department for 11 years and was survived by his wife, son, and parents. His death was a significant loss to the community and his fellow officers, who remembered him as a dedicated and courageous officer.
