Deputy Sheriff Terry Thomas O'Connell, Jefferson County Sheriff's Department, Missouri

Deputy Sheriff Terry Thomas O'Connell

Jefferson County Sheriff's Department, Missouri

End of Watch Wednesday, April 5, 1978

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Terry Thomas O'Connell

Deputy Sheriff O'Connell was shot and killed while conducting a traffic stop at the intersection of Highway 30 and Route Y near Dittmer.

At 11:00 a.m., Deputy O'Connell pulled over a driver who was speeding. As he approached the car, the driver suddenly produced a handgun and shot him multiple times before fleeing.

The suspect, who had narcotic convictions, was apprehended after a long manhunt and sentenced to life in prison.

Deputy O'Connell had served with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department for four months and previously served with the Fenton Police Department, St. Louis County Sheriff's Department, and Marlborough Police Department for over nine years. He was survived by his wife, two stepchildren, parents, sister, and brother.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour 10 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Sentenced to life

convicted felon, traffic stop

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Most Recent Reflection

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Dave and Sharon plus others unknown. Terry was my partner and friend when we worked together at Country Club Hills P.D. In 1975/76 . I dearly miss him and spent some personal time hunting for his killer Jack Lindsey. I've been to 30 + other End of Watch ceremonies since that fateful day in April, 5th 1978. He was a good cop..

Lt. Dean E. Ascoli
23 POLICE /Govt Agencies Fed. St. County and City. Retired from 3

October 23, 2025