Police Officer Franke Neal Lewis

Police Officer Franke Neal Lewis

Long Beach Police Department, California

End of Watch Saturday, December 13, 1975

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Franke Neal Lewis

Police Officer Franke Lewis was shot and killed when he went to investigate suspicious activity near his home after returning home from duty.

A citizen had parked his car on the street and gone to sleep in it to avoid driving on the freeway while drowsy. A subject who was attempting to break into the car attacked the citizen. Officer Lewis, who was just arriving home following his shift, heard the commotion and went to investigate. As he approached the car the subject opened fire, killing him.

The man fled the scene and has never been identified. A $75,000 reward has been offered in conjunction with the release of a sketch and vehicle description.

Officer Lewis' wife was also home at the time and heard the shot that killed her husband.

Officer Lewis is survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

  • Age 28
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Never identified

off duty

Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Lewis,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Long Beach. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

December 14, 2025

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