Patrol Officer Gordon Elmer Stotz

Patrol Officer Gordon Elmer Stotz | Winter Haven Police Department, Florida Patrol Officer Gordon Elmer Stotz | Winter Haven Police Department, FloridaPatrol Officer Gordon Elmer Stotz | Winter Haven Police Department, Florida
Winter Haven Police Department, Florida
Patrol Officer Gordon Elmer Stotz | Winter Haven Police Department, Florida
Patrol Officer Gordon Elmer Stotz | Winter Haven Police Department, Florida
Patrol Officer Gordon Elmer Stotz | Winter Haven Police Department, Florida
Patrol Officer Gordon Elmer Stotz

Winter Haven Police Department, Florida

End of Watch Wednesday, March 28, 1956

Add to My Heroes

Gordon Elmer Stotz

Patrol Officer Gordon Stotz was killed in an automobile crash while pursuing another vehicle on the Lucerne Park Road, near Flornce Villa , shortly before midnight.

He and his partner had observed a vehicle speeding near Avenue One, NW, and began to pursue it, reaching speeds of over 100 mph. The patrol car that Officer Stotz was riding in left the roadway and struck a large oak tree, causing him to be ejected. The officer who was driving sustained serious injuries.

The vehicle being pursued also crashed nearby and the occupants were taken into custody.

Officer Stotz was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of WWII and had served with the Winter Haven Police Department for three years. He was survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

  • Age 31
  • Tour 3 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicle pursuit
  • Weapon Automobile
  • Offender Apprehended

single vehicle crash, vehicle pursuit

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 15 Reflections

As a career employee of the City of Winter Haven, Florida, and as the current City Manager, I praise Officer Stotz for his commitment to our citizens and for making the absolute sacrifice in the pursuit of ensuring our safety.

T. Michael Stavres, City Manager
City of Winter Haven, Florida

April 29, 2025

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

Recent LODD Deaths