Police Officer James Ryan McCandless

Police Officer James Ryan McCandless

Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota

End of Watch Tuesday, August 2, 2011

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James Ryan McCandless

Officer J. Ryan McCandless and Officer Nick Armstrong were shot and killed as they and another officer questioned four suspicious subjects at the intersection of East Anamosa and Greenbriar Streets at about 4:30 pm.

After several minutes, a male subject in the group pulled out a concealed handgun and opened fire, striking all three officers before being wounded by return fire. The subject was shot and fatally wounded.

All three officers were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Officer McCandless was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at the hospital, and Officer Nick Armstrong succumbed to his wounds five days later.

Officer McCandless had served with the Rapid City Police Department for six years. He is survived by his fiancée, parents, and sister.

He is buried in Midland City Cemetery, Midland, Michigan.

Bio

  • Age 28
  • Tour 6 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Shot and killed

suspicious person

Most Recent Reflection

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Thanks for helping me up the hills in Stafford while I rode the Law Enforcement United ride with your name on my bracelet. Thanks for all the memories in college and your friendship. It was an honor to ride for you and Officer Darden from my agency this year.

I’m sending your mom my bracelet and flag that I rode into DC with.

SGT Steven Bissett
Norfolk Police Department

May 13, 2024

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