Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office, Utah
End of Watch Saturday, March 10, 1973
Add to My HeroesMelvin C. Colebrook, Jr.
Deputy Sheriff Melvin Colebrook was shot and killed with his partner's weapon after the two officers responded to a domestic disturbance in an affluent part of the Valley.
The subject was found holding his child in an upstairs room. After the child was removed, the subject began to fight with the deputies. During the struggle the man obtained control of Deputy Colebrook's partner's weapon and shot Deputy Colebrook in the head. The partner was able to overpower the suspect and place him in custody.
The suspect, who was a bank vice president, was released the next day on extremely low bail. During a highly publicized trial, the suspect was acquitted of murdering Deputy Colebrook.
Deputy Sheriff Melvin Colebrook was a United States Army Korean War veteran and had served with the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office for 1 year. He is survived by a wife and three children.
He is buried in Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park in Millcreek, Salt Lake County, Utah.
Bio
- Age 41
- Tour 1 year
- Badge 100
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Officer's handgun
- Offender Acquitted
Most Recent Reflection
View all 26 ReflectionsMel was my uncle. He used to pick me up to babysit for him and and his wife Jean. I always enjoyed the ride. Lead foot. I remember how horrified I was when he was murdered. He left behind 3 beautiful children and a wife who adored him. Thank you Mel for all you accomplished in a life cut short.
Karen Earl
Niece
March 11, 2025
