U.S. Air Force · United States 
Elmer Murray Harris
1986
Elmer Murray Harris served the U.S. Air Force for 4 years. Elmer served in 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.
Service Record
U.S. Air Force
1966 – 1970
Conflicts
Vietnam War
Cold War
Also Served
St. Clair County Sheriff's Department
Deputy Sheriff
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
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Record added
August 2, 2026
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Last updated
August 2, 2026
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