1965

June 30, 1965
Gunfire   @ 650 W. Crosstimbers

DOB – 10/20/1936, Age 28
Badge – 1690
Class #22
Final Resting place – Forest Park Lawndale, Houston, TX

Accident Investigator Floyd Deloach, who was working an extra job at the North Shepherd Bowlind Lanes, 605 Crosstimbers, was shot and killed on Wednesday, June 30, 1965 in the parking lot of a bowling alley. Officer Deloach was in uniform and worked at the lanes from 7 to 11 p.m. as an extra job to supplement his police pay. Rowling Lane employees said his main job was to patrol the parking lot and prevent looting of customer's cars.

The Suspect, who was wanted in Abilene on an armed robbery charge, was described as red-haired, freckle-faced, 140 pounds and about 5'7" tall. A man fitting this description was reported seen with Officer DeLoach several minutes before the officer was slain. A wallet with Donald J. Davis, 22, and his identification was found at the sched of the slaying. A witness at the scene reported that Oiifer DeLoach and a man was in the front seat of the officer's parked car. The witness glimpsed a brief struggle, then heard serveral shots and saw Officer DeLoach shoved from the car, which drove off. Officer DeLoach was shot six times and later died in the Heights Hospital at 11:20 p.m.

More than 100 lawmen, including Texans Rangers, Sheriffs Deputies, State Troopers, and City Police searched the area. Two Piper Cubs, piloted by deputies, 20 bloodhounds, and a dozen mounted officers also participated in the manhunt.  The 28 year old officer was described by the night manager of the lanes as a "very outgoing and friendly."  He was a fine, fine, fellow" she said.

He had been in the  police department five and a half years, and spent much of his time working as an accident investigaror.

Officer Floyd T. DeLoach is survived by his wife, JoAnn; two children, Terry Lynn and Tracy Lee; his parents Mr. and Mrs. F.T. DeLoach Sr., and a sister, Mrs. Weldon Wells.

Source – Houston Police Department Museum Files