United States of America
Headstone of Thomas Abrams
U.S. Navy · United States United States

Thomas Abrams

Thomas "Fox" Abrams

Died January 7, 1962

Thomas Abrams served in the U.S. Navy.

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

Patrolman Thomas Abrams was shot and killed after responding to a disturbance at a club on East Valley Street, near Henry Street. He was attempting to arrest a man when the subject produced a .22 caliber revolver and shot him in the chest. The suspect was captured at his home still holding the pistol. He was subsequently committed to a mental hospital in Columbia. He was released after spending 12 years in the facility. Patrolman Abrams was a U.S. Navy veteran and had served with the Spartanburg Police Department for 11 years. He is believed to be the first African American hired by the department.

Media
Thomas Abrams
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Branch

U.S. Navy
Service Record
U.S. Navy
Also Served
Spartanburg Police Department
Patrolman
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 21-E · Line 3 cut as THOMAS FOX ABRAMS
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtqg5htvetrm6p97xx88d
Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
Stewarded by neuraweb.nw
Last updated August 2, 2026

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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.

Patrolman Abrams gave the Spartanburg Police Department 11 years.

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

Rest easy, brother.

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

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