Chief of Police Dana Lee Thompson, Manchester Police Department, Vermont

Chief of Police Dana Lee Thompson

Manchester Police Department, Vermont

End of Watch Tuesday, December 12, 1972

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Dana Lee Thompson

Chief of Police Dana Thompson was shot and killed, and another officer was wounded by one of two suspects after responding to a burglary in progress at a local drug store at 10:20 pm.

The officers had returned fire and seriously wounded the suspect who shot them. The other suspect escaped but was captured a short time later.

The suspect who killed Chief Thompson was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison on October 10, 1973. He hanged himself in prison on April 1, 1989.

Chief Thompson had served as the Chief of Police for the Manchester Police Department for over 15 years and served in law enforcement for over 18 years. He was survived by his wife and five children.

Bio

Age 61
Tour 18 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Died in prison

robbery

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Most Recent Reflection

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Grandpa Thompson, there isn't a day that goes by, that your family doesn't think of you. The memories you created with each of them with are never far from their thoughts.
We love when you stop by. Your pipe tobacco smell always tells us you're visiting. It's always at the same spot in the house, the chair you always sat in.
You are always with them. You are still missed dearly.
Merry Christmas in heaven.

Gary (and Lynn) Townsend
grandson

December 12, 2025