United States of America
Headstone of Leonard B. Wilcox
U.S. Marine Corps · United States United States

Leonard B. Wilcox

Died January 31, 1986

Leonard B. Wilcox served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 4 years. Leonard served during the years of the Vietnam War and the Cold War.

How He Died
Manner Homicide
Cause Gunshot wound
Mechanism Firearm
What Happened

Police Officer Leonard Wilcox and Police Officer Mark Decker were shot and killed while attempting to question a suspicious man at the Brecksville VA Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. Both officers were armed only with mace due to administrative guidelines. While the officers were talking with the man he pulled out a .45 caliber handgun and shot Officer Decker, killing him instantly. Officer Wilcox attempted to run for cover, but the suspect chased him before shooting him as well. The 28-year-old suspect was convicted of two counts of murder and sentenced to two life terms. He will be eligible for parole on October 1, 2046. Officer Wilcox had served with the Department of Veterans Affairs Police for two years.

Survivors
He was survived by his wife and three children.
Media
Leonard B. Wilcox
Leonard B. Wilcox 0 views
Service Record
U.S. Marine Corps
1968 – 1972
Also Served
United States Department of Veterans Affairs Police Services
Police Officer
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 6-W · Line 13 cut as LEONARD B WILCOX
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtnf9p87pdegpc160z65t
Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
Stewarded by neuraweb.nw
Last updated August 2, 2026

This page is permanent and free. No fee to view it, no advertising, no tracking, and no account required. It will not be taken down.

Are you family? This record can be claimed and maintained by those who knew Leonard. Claim this record.

In tribute

I never knew you. I am standing here anyway.

Police Officer Wilcox gave the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Police Services 2 years.

Thank you for your service. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, Police Officer Wilcox.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

Add your own tribute to Leonard.

Leave a Tribute
↑