Gaston County Police Department, North Carolina
End of Watch Monday, February 5, 1979
Add to My HeroesRandy Michael Pendleton
Patrolman Moose Pendleton was killed when his patrol car was broadside at a high rate of speed by a dangerous felon who was fleeing other officers on U.S. 74 near Lowell.
The suspect was later apprehended. He was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to 10 years in prison, the maximum sentence allowed by law.
Patrolman Pendleton had served with the Gaston County Police Department for only three months and had previously served with the Mount Holly Police Department for four years. Patrolman Pendleton was survived by his wife and his parents.
Bio
- Age 24
- Tour 4 years, 3 months
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Vehicle pursuit
- Weapon Automobile
- Offender 10 years prison
Most Recent Reflection
View all 11 ReflectionsI had the privilege to meet Moose in college while taking Police science. He became a true friend and was and always will be like a brother to me. I still miss him to this day but know we will meet again some day in heaven.
Clarence Moss
Friend
February 5, 2023
Recent LODD Deaths
Deputy Sheriff Tim Jordan
Bossier Parish Sheriff's Office, LA
EOW: January 21, 2026
Agent Aníbal Morales Aponte
Puerto Rico Police Department, PR
EOW: January 13, 2026
Zone Sergeant Steven W. Greene
New York State Police, NY
EOW: October 24, 2025
Sergeant Frederick W. Scheidt, Jr.
New York State Police, NY
EOW: August 13, 2025
Trooper Mark A. Ondus
New York State Police, NY
EOW: October 19, 2025
Police Officer Elijah Garretson
Copperas Cove Police Department, TX
EOW: January 11, 2026
Master Police Officer Donald Richard Gotthardt, Jr.
Fairfax County Police Department, VA
EOW: October 16, 2025
Police Officer Terry L. Bennett
Metropolitan Police Department, DC
EOW: January 7, 2026
Police Officer Stephen LaPorta
Uxbridge Police Department, MA
EOW: January 7, 2026


