Trumann Police Department, Arkansas
End of Watch Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Add to My HeroesJonathan Richard Schmidt
Patrolman Jonathan Schmidt was shot and killed at approximately 11:30 pm as he and his sergeant made a traffic stop on Pine Avenue, near Cottonwood Manor.
The officers stopped a vehicle occupied by three individuals for operating without insurance. The officers removed the driver and placed him under arrest on a failure to appear warrant.
As Patrolman Schmidt opened the rear passenger door to remove the second male passenger, the man lunged at him and immediately opened fire. Patrolman Schmidt, who was shot in the neck, turned and pushed his sergeant out of the way before returning fire. The suspect was wounded by the return gunfire and taken into custody. He was convicted and sentenced to death.
Patrolman Schmidt was taken to NEA Baptist Hospital where he died from his wounds.
On July 26th, 2012, the subject who shot Patrolman Schmidt was convicted of capital murder. He was subsequently sentenced to death.
Patrolman Schmidt had served with the Trumann Police Department for four years. He is survived by his wife and three children.
Bio
- Age 30
- Tour 4 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Incident Date Tuesday, April 12, 2011
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender Sentenced to death
Most Recent Reflection
View all 290 ReflectionsOfficer Schmidt, i'm sorry for what happened to you on that traffic stop 14 years ago, as you did not deserve what happened to you. The man who killed you was evil, and he won't be out to harm others or anyone again, as he was thankfully sentenced to death. I'm not sure if he was executed or not, but if he hasn't, his time will come soon. He will be punished for taking away a good officer, a good man, a good husband, and a good father. However, from what i learned, you were a kind officer at heart, as i read that you saved a 1 year old child with CPR, meaning that you truly did care not just about children, but your city and people aswell. From what i have learned, is that you were a proud resident of Arkansas, and you wanted to protect your people and serve in the best way that you knew how, and you succeeded in doing so. You were a man with dedication, honor, and you were one of the good ones within the police force. Despite being so much evil in the world, especially as of now, i have to credit you for your courage and bravery, as you faced evil in your last moments, and fought until the end to show how strong and brave you were as a man. But as of now, may you rest in peace knowing your service is appreciated, and your kids will grow up learning that their father was a hero, and that the people of arkansas are honored to have had you protecting their lives during your time alive. Rest Well Mr. Schmidt
Morgan, a civilian supporter of the blue line
April 22, 2025
