San Marcos Police Department, Texas
End of Watch Saturday, April 18, 2020
Add to My HeroesJustin Read Putnam
Police Officer Justin Putnam was shot and killed when he and other officers responded to a domestic assault incident at an apartment complex in the 2900 block of Hunter Road at 6:15 p.m.
As the officers entered the apartment they were ambushed by a male subject with a rifle. Officer Putnam was killed and two other officers were wounded but survived.
The subject, an undocumented immigrant from Mexico who was wearing body armor, committed suicide after shooting the officers.
Officer Putnam had served with the San Marcos Police Department for 5-1/2 years. He is survived by his fiancee, sister, and other family members.
Bio
- Age 31
- Tour 5 years, 6 months
- Badge 442
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Rifle
- Offender Committed suicide
Most Recent Reflection
View all 158 ReflectionsMy name is Rhett Barkley, and I am a part of GAVC Criminal Justice Year 2. Both this officer and this story stuck out to me. I don't think people understand how dangerous an officer's job can be. Rest in peace, officer Putnam. You and your family will forever be in my thoughts and prayers.
Rhett Barkley
March 10, 2022
Recent LODD Deaths
Corporal Timothy J. O'Connor, Jr.
Pennsylvania State Police, PA
EOW: March 8, 2026
Deputy Sheriff Kaleb Mitchell
Forsyth County Sheriff's Office, NC
EOW: March 7, 2026
Master Trooper Steven J. Perry
North Carolina Highway Patrol, NC
EOW: March 1, 2026
Conservation Enforcement Officer Senior Shawn Nixon
Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources - Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, AL
EOW: November 23, 2025
Corporal David M. Hathcock
Montgomery Police Department, AL
EOW: February 22, 2026
Correctional Officer Dustin Pedigo
Tennessee Department of Correction, TN
EOW: February 25, 2026
Deputy Sheriff Michael Hislope
Christian County Sheriff's Office, MO
EOW: February 24, 2026
Deputy Sheriff Gabriel Ramirez
Christian County Sheriff's Office, MO
EOW: February 23, 2026
Deputy Sheriff Kenneth Lewis
Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: February 23, 2026




