Patrolman Edwin Hugh Stephenson, Jr.

Edwin Hugh Stephenson, Jr.

Patrolman Edwin Stephenson and Patrolman Leaward Rich were killed in an automobile crash while en route to assist another officer who was chasing a stolen car.

During their response at 12:30 a.m., in an attempt to avoid another car in the intersection, the unmarked police car left the roadway. It struck a tree at Brook Street and Westwood Avenue, causing fatal injuries to both officers.

Patrolman Stephenson had served with the Richmond Police Department for three years. He was survived by his wife, son, parents, two sisters, and a brother.