United States of America
Headstone of Roy Luke Bassett
U.S. Air Force · United States United States

Roy Luke Bassett

Died September 23, 1994

Roy Luke Bassett served in the U.S. Air Force.

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

Sheriff Roy Bassett was shot and killed while assisting a Missouri Highway Patrol trooper investigate a minor traffic accident on U.S. 63, south of Vienna. As the trooper began to interview one of the drivers he became suspicious and requested backup. When Sheriff Bassett arrived he was asked to watch the driver and passenger as the trooper searched the vehicle. The driver suddenly opened fire on Sheriff Bassett, striking him several times. At the same time, the passenger lunged at the trooper in an effort to disarm him. The trooper drew his weapon and shot the man, wounding him. The trooper and the driver then exchanged shots until the driver was fatally wounded. Sheriff Bassett was flown to Phelps County Regional Medical Center where he succumbed to his wounds while undergoing surgery. Sheriff Bassett was a US Air Force veteran and had served as sheriff for 10 years.

Survivors
He was survived by his wife, daughter, and two sons.
Media
Roy Luke Bassett
Roy Luke Bassett 0 views
Service Record
U.S. Air Force
Also Served
Maries County Sheriff's Office
Sheriff
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 37W · Line 19 cut as ROY LUKE BASSETT
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtqve9y434zk08d5bh8vh
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 Roy. Claim this record.

In tribute

I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.

Sheriff Bassett gave the Maries County Sheriff's Office 10 years.

Thank you for your service to the Vienna community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, brother.

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

Add your own tribute to Roy.

Leave a Tribute
↑