Police Officer Bobby Lee James

Bobby Lee James

Officer Bobby James was killed when his cruiser was forced off of the road while chasing the suspect who had just shot and killed Officer Ben Gerhart.

Officer Gerhart had stopped the suspect after observing the man and a woman throwing bottles from their car. He placed the suspect in his cruiser and returned to the vehicle to talk to the woman. The man suddenly ran back to the car and retrieved a handgun from under the seat and opened fire as Officer Gerhart drew his weapon. The suspect then stole Officer Gerhart's weapon and fled the scene.

Several officers began chasing the suspect after locating the vehicle. During the pursuit, the suspect fired at the officers before forcing Officer James' cruiser off the road on Beaumont Highway near Talcott Lane. The suspect fled on foot but was shot and killed in an ensuing shootout.

Officer James served with the Houston Police Department for 17 years and was survived by his wife, mother, three daughters, and two sons.