TAMPA, Florida — On this day in 1998, the Tampa Police Department and communities from all around the Bay region took a moment to honor the lives of two detectives who had been killed in the line of duty earlier that day.
On May 19, 1998, Detective Randy Bell, age 44, and Detective Ricky Childers, age 46, were both tragically killed while investigating a homicide. Their deaths occurred on the same day.
The suspect, who the police say pretended to be a distraught parent but was actually using a false name, allegedly opened fire and killed both of the detectives as they were driving back to the police headquarters.
The statement issued by the Tampa Police Department was as follows: “Detective Bell and Detective Childers, your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten,” “You are in our thoughts and hearts today and always.”
The agency has stated that it will also be remembering Florida Highway Patrol Trooper James Crooks, who was slain in the line of duty while attempting to stop the suspect who stole a truck and fled the scene of the crime. Crooks was a member of the Florida Highway Patrol and was killed in the course of duty.
