QUANTICO, Va. — A wreath was laid today at Quantico National Cemetery to honor the first and only police officer in Manassas to die in the line of duty.
Sgt. John David Conner, III, was killed July 24, 1988, when he was called for a report of a man who was sitting on the front porch of a home armed with an AR-15 assault rifle shooting bullets into the air. When the man did not comply with Conner, gunfire was exchanged and Conner was shot three times and later died, according to his Officer Down Memorial page.
The suspect was shot in the foot and survived, but was later sentenced to death and was executed nine-years later.
On Wednesday, the 25th Anniversary of Conner’s death was marked at the wreath laying at his gravesite, which was attended by the Manassas police Honor Guard and staff.
More in a press release from Manassas police:
In the Point of Woods neighborhood, near the intersection of Stonewall Road and McKenzie Circle, there is a gazebo and tribute plaque, which reads; “Sergeant John D. Conner III – A community hero who made the ultimate sacrifice. May he be remembered for his strength and courage.
A reminder of just how dangerous being a police officer can be, another Manassas police officer is recovering after she was struck by a car earlier this month during a routine traffic stop.
Officials say Officer Heather Munsterman suffered several injuries that were not life threatening, but it will be months before she is able to return to full duty.
