U.S. Marine Corps · United States 
Michael Bentley
1983
Michael Jay Bentley served the U.S. Marine Corps for 2 years. Michael also served in the U.S. Marine Corps.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
Mechanism
Motor vehicle
What Happened
Deputy Sheriff Michael Bentley was killed when his cruiser was intentionally rammed by a fleeing armed robbery suspect. The suspect was fleeing an armed robbery of a convenience store in a stolen pick-up. The suspect changed direction, and before the pursuing deputy could broadcast the direction, he approached Deputy Bentley's unit head-on, explaining later that he saw the vehicle but decided to commit suicide by ramming the patrol car. The subject suffered a cut lip. The subject was sentenced to life imprisonment but is eligible for parole. Deputy Bentley was a United States Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran and had served with the Kern County Sheriff's Office for eight years.
Survivors
He was survived by his wife, stepson, parents.
Service Record
U.S. Marine Corps
1969 – 1970
U.S. Marine Corps
Also Served
Kern County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Sheriff
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtqwp8szzb5b2290dke3m
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 Michael. Claim this record.
Be the first to honor Michael.
Leave a Tribute