On a spring night in Ettrick, Virginia, the life of 34-year-old Gary Jonathan Buro was cut short. On May 4, 2006, the male Chesterfield County Police Officer was responding to a domestic dispute at a residence on Totty Street. He and his partner entered the home, walking into a situation that would turn fatal in an instant. A man inside the house opened fire immediately upon the officers' entrance.
Officer Buro was struck by the gunfire and killed. His partner, though wounded by five bullets, showed incredible bravery by returning fire and killing the assailant. The swift and tragic event left a profound impact on the community and the law enforcement fraternity. Officer Buro was relatively new to the Chesterfield County Police Department, having served for only five months. However, his commitment to public service was long-standing. He was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and had previously served as a police officer with the New York City Police Department for six years and the Lantana, Florida, Police Department for five years.
The man who shot Officer Buro was killed at the scene by Buro's partner, meaning there were no subsequent arrests or trials. The incident stands as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers. Officer Buro, a widower, was survived by his parents, a sister, and a brother, who were left to mourn the loss of a man dedicated to protecting others.
