North Carolina Highway Patrol, North Carolina
End of Watch Monday, December 29, 1947
Add to My HeroesThomas B. Whatley
Patrolman Thomas Whatley succumbed to gunshot wounds received the previous evening while he and the Graham County Sheriff attempted to serve a restraining order at a home near Robbinsville.
As the officers stepped onto the front porch the suspect opened fire with a rifle, striking Patrolman Whatley in the abdomen. Patrolman Whatley was taken to District Hospital in Andrews, North Carolina, where he succumbed to his wound.
The killer was apprehended a short time later and convicted of Patrolman Whatley's murder. He was released after serving 17 years.
Patrolman Whatley was a WWII veteran and had served with the North Carolina Highway Patrol for four months. He was survived by his parents.
Bio
- Age 25
- Tour 4 months
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Incident Date Sunday, December 28, 1947
- Weapon Rifle; .30-.30
- Offender Served 17 years
Most Recent Reflection
View all 12 ReflectionsPatrolman Whatley,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served during World War II. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
December 29, 2022
