Officer James L. Gordon

Officer James L. Gordon

Metropolitan Police Department, District of Columbia

End of Watch Monday, December 14, 1987

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James L. Gordon

Officer James Gordon was shot and killed by a Prince George's County police officer in a case of mistaken identity.

He had returned to his home in 10600 block of Mt. Lubentia Way in Largo, Maryland, when he discovered an open window and suspected that a burglar might be inside. As Officer Gordon walked through the house with his gun drawn, a Prince George's County police officer arrived on the scene because a neighbor had reported seeing a suspicious person enter the home.

In a tragic case of mistaken identity, the responding officer shot and killed Officer Gordon when he turned toward him with his gun in hand.

Officer Gordon was a U.S. Army veteran and had served with the Metropolitan Police Department for 17 years. He was survived by his daughter.

Bio

  • Age 41
  • Tour 17 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)
  • Location Maryland

at home, mistaken identity, off duty

Most Recent Reflection

View all 25 Reflections

Such a tragic way to go; but rest assured your sacrifice isn't unnoticed. May your soul continue to rest in eternal peace. Peace and blessings to your daughter. <3

FaLinda Johnson GPSTC Cadet
Jesup Police Department

December 14, 2021

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