Melvin Earl Collins served in the U.S. Army for 6 years and 7 months. Melvin served during the years of the Cold War and Gulf War.
Gunfire
Officer Melvin Collins was shot and killed when he intervened in a robbery while working an off-duty job at a grocery store at 3915 Darien Highway.
Two men came into the store and attempted to rob it. When one of the suspects fired two shots past a female clerk's head, Officer Collins identified himself as a police officer and exchanged shots with the two suspects.
Although mortally wounded, Officer Collins struck one of the suspects in the hand and was able to subdue him with the help of two off-duty U.S. Marshals who were also in the store. The second suspect fled into a nearby marsh where he was apprehended the following day. The suspect was convicted of murdering Officer Collins in 2003 in Brunswick, Georgia and received a sentence of life without the possibility of parole.
Officer Collins had just graduated from the academy and was to have his ceremonial swearing-in on the following Monday, three days after he was killed.
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 Melvin. Claim this record.
In tribute
I never knew you. I am standing here anyway.
Officer Collins served with the Brunswick Police Department.
Thank you for your service to the Brunswick community. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, Officer Collins.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
Add your own tribute to Melvin.
Leave a Tribute