United States of America
Headstone of Elmer Murray Harris
U.S. Air Force · United States United States

Elmer Murray Harris

Died December 5, 1986

Elmer Murray Harris served in the U.S. Air Force for 3 years and 9 months. Elmer served during the years of the Vietnam War and the Cold War.

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

Deputy Sheriff Elmer Harris was shot and killed in front of 4601 State Street, in East St. Louis, while attempting to arrest a man for illegally carrying a weapon. Deputy Harris and another deputy were working a secondary employment job providing security on a public transit bus. They observed a man with a handgun board the bus and attempted to arrest him. A foot pursuit ensued during which the man shot Deputy Harris. Despite his wounds, Deputy Harris was able to return fire and wounded the subject.

Survivors
Deputy Harris was survived by his two children.
Media
Elmer Murray Harris
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Branch

U.S. Air Force · 1966 – 1970
Service Record
U.S. Air Force
1966 – 1970
Also Served
St. Clair County Sheriff's Department
Deputy Sheriff
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 13-W · Line 14 cut as ELMER MURRAY HARRIS
In Our Keeping
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Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I never knew you. I am standing here anyway.

Deputy Sheriff Harris gave the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department 16 years.

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

Rest easy, Deputy Sheriff Harris.

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

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