Patrolman William H. Keith

Patrolman William H. Keith

Del City Police Department, Oklahoma

End of Watch Tuesday, January 19, 1965

Add to My Heroes

William H. Keith

Patrolman William Keith succumbed to injuries sustained in a vehicle crash seven days earlier.

Patrolman Keith, who had only been on the force for three days, was involved in a vehicle pursuit. Patrolman Keith's sergeant, who was riding with him at the time, was firing his service pistol and shotgun at the fleeing car. Patrolman Keith lost control of the vehicle at Southeast 74th Street and South Sunnylane Road and struck a light pole at an estimated 80 mph.

Patrolman Keith was taken to a local hospital where he died one week later. The sergeant was critically injured and medically retired from the department.

The driver they were pursuing was charged with manslaughter, leaving the scene of an accident, and failure to stop and render aid. He was acquitted of the manslaughter charge.

Patrolman Keith had served with the Del City Police Department for ten days. He was survived by his wife and three young children.

Bio

  • Age 26
  • Tour 1 week
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicle pursuit
  • Incident Date Tuesday, January 12, 1965
  • Weapon Automobile
  • Offender Apprehended

vehicle pursuit, single vehicle crash

Powered by Esri
Zoom In
Zoom Out
Expand

Most Recent Reflection

View all 9 Reflections

Patrolman Keith,
On today, the 60th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Del City. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

January 19, 2025

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.