Captain Donald Eugene Owens, Bloomington Police Department, Indiana

Captain Donald Eugene Owens

Bloomington Police Department, Indiana

End of Watch Friday, August 15, 1975

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Donald Eugene Owens

Captain Donald Owens was shot and killed by a prisoner he was escorting from court at 122 South Walnut Street in Bloomington.

At 2:15 p.m., after leaving the courtroom, the prisoner, who was handcuffed in front, was able to draw Captain Owens' service weapon. He fired the shot into his stomach, intending to commit suicide, but the bullet went through his stomach and struck Captain Owens in the heart, killing him instantly.

The suspect was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 15 to 25 years in prison.

Captain Owens was a United States Navy WWII veteran and had served with the Bloomington Police Department for 30 years. He was survived by his wife, son, and two daughters.

Bio

Age 49
Tour 30 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to 15 to 25 years

attending court, prisoner custody

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Most Recent Reflection

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Capt. Owens,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Navy during World War II. And to your Family I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Fair Winds And Following Seas

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

August 15, 2025