Detective James Merry Walker

I was cleaning out an old box of keepsakes from my old department after retirement. I came across a plaque from the MPD FOP, thanking me for my contribution in catching Det. Walker's killer. I was the first officer to arrive on the scene. I was in the area, heard the shots ring out and was there in seconds. I apprehended a subject fleeing the scene on foot and detained him for detectives. That subject, although not the shooter, was key in identifying the shooter. As a young rookie cop, this was the case that really contextualized the reality of this job for me. Det. Walker was not on duty, but he was still a cop. He did what a cop needed to do in that situation and set a standard of bravery, vigilance and decisive action that I carried with me throughout the rest of my career. His death is a solemn reminder that life is precious and can be gone in an instant, especially for those called to do this job. It reminds us to hug our loved ones a little tighter and live with purpose and love. James, although we never met, your sacrifice left a mark on me that I will carry forever. You are loved and will never be forgotten.

Capt. Karl Anderson (Ret)

August 29, 2024