U.S. Army · United States 
Kirk Leland Johnson
1983
Kirk Leland Johnson served the U.S. Army for 4 years. Kirk served in the Vietnam War and the Cold War.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
Mechanism
Firearm
What Happened
Patrolman Kirk Johnson was shot and killed by a 16-year-old boy who had stolen his father's sheriff's uniform and marked patrol car. When Patrolman Johnson pulled up to next to what he thought was a uniformed deputy in San Clemente Park the suspect opened fire, killing him. The case remained unsolved for over one month before another youth broke down at the dinner table and told his parents he and another boy were with the suspect when he shot Patrolman Johnson. Neither youth was charged. On April 1, 1987 the suspect was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 17 years to life in prison. Patrolman Johnson had served with the San Diego Police Department for two years.
Survivors
He was survived by his wife.
Service Record
U.S. Army
1975 – 1979
Conflicts
Vietnam War
Cold War
Also Served
San Diego Police Department
Patrolman
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtn11kymm1qyays4whcq0
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 Kirk. Claim this record.
Be the first to honor Kirk.
Leave a Tribute