Lansing Police Department, Michigan
End of Watch Thursday, May 9, 1985
Add to My HeroesDean A. Whitehead
Officer Whitehead was killed when he was struck by the main rotor blades of a helicopter after a crash landing. He and his partner were on air patrol when they spotted a burning motor-home on I-96.
After fire units arrived on the scene they began to ascend, but the helicopter struck electrical lines which crossed over the median. The helicopter descended rapidly and struck the ground. As both officers fled the aircraft Officer Whitehead was struck by the rotor blades, killing him instantly.
Officer Whitehead had served with the agency for 7 years and had served in law enforcement for a total of 9 years. He was survived by his wife, parents, and three brothers.
Bio
- Age 30
- Tour 9 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Aircraft accident
Most Recent Reflection
View all 10 ReflectionsPolice Officer Dean A. Whitehead will never ever be forgotten. I thank him for his service to the people of Lansing, Mi. RIP sir.
Retired First Sergeant Thomas Webb
New York State Police - Troop "D"
October 11, 2020
Recent LODD Deaths
Detention Officer Isaiah Bias
Ellis County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: December 16, 2024
Sergeant Elio Diaz
Charlotte County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: December 15, 2024
Sergeant Rick Finley
McNairy County Sheriff's Office, TN
EOW: December 14, 2024
Police Officer Jacob Candanoza
Terrell Police Department, TX
EOW: December 8, 2024
Detective Allan Reddins
Oak Park Police Department, IL
EOW: November 29, 2024
Police Officer Jesse Branch
Red Lake Nation Police Department, TR
EOW: November 27, 2024
Assistant Special Agent in Charge Joseph Love
United States Department of Homeland Security - Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, US
EOW: October 19, 2024
Police Officer Cooper Dawson
Greenville Police Department, TX
EOW: November 26, 2024
Deputy Sheriff Ignacio "Dan" Diaz
Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: November 25, 2024