Police Officer Bernard Trevor Lankford, Richlands Police Department, Virginia

Police Officer Bernard Trevor Lankford

Richlands Police Department, Virginia

End of Watch Thursday, November 15, 1962

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Bernard Trevor Lankford

Officer Bernard Lankford suffered a fatal heart attack shortly after being involved in a foot pursuit of a prisoner.

He had arrested a young woman and transported her to the police department's holding cell. The girl fled on foot when he opened the patrol car's door. He pursued her a short distance before subduing her. After taking her to the police station, he became ill. He was transported to a local hospital where he passed away a short time later.

Officer Lankford had served with the Richlands Police Department for eight years. He was survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

Age 41
Tour 8 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Heart attack

foot pursuit, prisoner custody

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Lankford’s last remaining child, Bernard Alan Langford, died Oct. 22, 2025, at 72 years old. His son was an Auxiliary Police Officer for many years with the Bristol Tennessee Police Department. He was my patrol partner and a close friend for many years.
We salute both Officer Bernard Trevor Langford and retired Auxiliary Officer Bernard Alan Langford.

Patrol Officer Craig Kistner
Bristol Tennessee Police Department

October 24, 2025