Officer Philip Bruce Mathis, Atlanta Police Department, Georgia

Officer Philip Bruce Mathis

Atlanta Police Department, Georgia

End of Watch Friday, April 26, 1985

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Philip Bruce Mathis

Officer Mathis was shot and killed while moonlighting as a security guard at Lenox Square Mall at 3393 Peachtree Road North East in Atlanta.

Around 8:30 p.m., he was shot three times as he entered a storage room and surprised a possible burglar.

The suspect was arrested five months later after multiple tips. He was convicted of murder and sentenced to life.

Officer Mathis was a United States Army National Guard veteran and had served with the Atlanta Police Department for 16 years. He was survived by his wife, daughter, parents, sister, and brother.

Bio

Age 38
Tour 16 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Life in prison

secondary employment

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Mathis,
On today, the 40th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

April 26, 2025