Chief of Police William Irvin Garland, Burkburnett Police Department, Texas

Chief of Police William Irvin Garland

Burkburnett Police Department, Texas

End of Watch Saturday, May 18, 1935

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William Irvin Garland

Chief Garland drowned when a bridge over the Red River, collapsed during a period of heavy flooding.

The chief had noticed that a number of people were on the bridge watching the rising flood waters. As he went onto the bridge to warn them to get off, the bridge was struck by timber from a railroad bridge that had collapsed upstream.

The impact of the timber caused the bridge to collapse. Chief Garland and six citizens were thrown into the river and drowned as a result.

Chief Garland had served with the agency for 15 years. He is survived by his wife and eight children.

Bio

Age 64
Tour 15 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Drowned

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Most Recent Reflection

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Chief Garland,
On today, the 90th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Burkbennett. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

May 19, 2025