Deputy Sheriff Robert William Varner, Jr.

Deputy Sheriff Robert William Varner, Jr. | Navajo County Sheriff's Office, Arizona
Navajo County Sheriff's Office, Arizona
Deputy Sheriff Robert William Varner, Jr.

Navajo County Sheriff's Office, Arizona

End of Watch Monday, January 2, 1989

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Robert William Varner, Jr.

Deputy Sheriff Robert Varner was shot and killed after stopping a stolen vehicle with stolen tags on I-40.

When the vehicle stopped, the passenger exited the car and opened fire with a submachine gun, striking Deputy Varner several times.

The suspects split up, and the shooter committed suicide before officers could apprehend him. The driver of the vehicle was apprehended and sentenced to thirteen years.

Deputy Varner had been a member of the Navajo County Sheriff's Department for one year after retiring from the Arizona Department of Public Safety, with 24 years of service. He is survived by his wife, son, and two daughters.

Bio

  • Age 51
  • Tour 26 years
  • Badge 48
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Saturday, December 31, 1988
  • Weapon Handgun; Mac-11
  • Offender Committed suicide

stolen vehicle

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Deputy Sheriff Varner,
On today, 36th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Air Force. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

January 2, 2025

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