Wildlife Officer Danese Byron Crowder, Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, Florida

Wildlife Officer Danese Byron Crowder

Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, Florida

End of Watch Friday, May 3, 1974

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Danese Byron Crowder

Wildlife Officer Dan Crowder was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a man at 8:30 p.m. for hunting deer out of season near Cooks Hammock, Lafayette County.

As Officer Crowder exited his patrol truck, the subject ambushed him, striking the truck door. He was hit with shrapnel and attempted to seek cover behind the truck but was shot in his back. He was found the next day.

The subject was apprehended in Lafayette County. He was convicted of Officer Crowder's murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Wildlife Officer Crowder was a Florida National Guard veteran and had served with the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission for four years. He was survived by his wife and four children.

Bio

Age 27
Tour 4 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Rifle; .243 caliber
Offender Sentenced to life

ambush, poacher

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Crowder,
On today, the 50th 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 National Guard. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

May 3, 2024