Private First Class Dennis Elisha LaPage

Private First Class Dennis Elisha LaPage | Charleston Police Department, South Carolina
Charleston Police Department, South Carolina
Private First Class Dennis Elisha LaPage

Charleston Police Department, South Carolina

End of Watch Saturday, January 19, 2002

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Dennis Elisha LaPage

Private First Class Dennis LaPage was shot and killed by a suspect who went on a shooting spree following a three-car accident he was involved in at Cannon Street and Courtenay Drive.

The accident occurred in front of a hospital helicopter landing pad. Two flight medics who were eating at a nearby restaurant witnessed the accident and ran to the scene to offer assistance. As they checked the victims, the suspect reached back into his car and retrieved a handgun. He then opened fire, striking both flight medics, killing one.

The suspect then fled the scene and encountered PFC LaPage, who was working a uniformed off-duty security job at a private college dorm. Thinking PFC LaPage was searching for him, the suspect immediately opened fire, striking him in the head, back, and elbow. The suspect continued to fire several more shots before being apprehended by police on Meeting Street. PFC LaPage was wearing a protective vest at the time.

The suspect was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison on October 23, 2002.

PFC LaPage had served with the Charleston Police Department for seven years. He is survived by his wife and two step-children.

Bio

  • Age 36
  • Tour 7 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; .40 caliber
  • Offender Sentenced to life

active shooter

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It has been many years since you were taken away from those who loved you most. Many years since the people of Charleston had the benefit of your love and protection. It has been many years since your smile lit up the world of all who came in contact with you. You have helped thousands of people, some of whom have graduated (high school & college), became what they may have never become, had it not been for you. Changing lives for the better, you changed mine forever (your partner Omar).

Omar
Partner

May 16, 2023

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