Trooper Gary Vance Gifford, Nevada Department of Public Safety

Trooper Gary Vance Gifford

Nevada Department of Public Safety - Nevada Highway Patrol, Nevada

End of Watch Tuesday, October 14, 1975

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Gary Vance Gifford

Trooper Gary Gifford was shot and killed after making a traffic stop of a bank robbery suspect on US 50, at Cave Rock, Nevada.

His killer was convicted of his murder and sent to prison. In 1989 his killer was shot and killed in prison after taking a physician hostage during a 10 hour standoff.

Trooper Gifford was a U.S. Navy veteran. He had served with the Nevada Highway Patrol for six years and had served a short time as chief of the Fallon Police Department. He is survived by his son, parents, and sister.

Bio

Age 29
Tour 6 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Died in prison

traffic stop

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Most Recent Reflection

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It doesn't seem possible it was 50 years ago today, I was one of the cover units responding to Gary's shooting. It was a very long day as 5 departments attempted to locate the suspect & his vehicle in the Lake Tahoe area. His funeral in San Francisco was a day none of us will never forget. Our department sent 5 deputies from the Incline Village Station to say goodbye to a friend.

Sergeant James vonRosenberg
Washoe County Sheriff's Office

October 15, 2025