Patrolman Steven B. Hiott, 21, was killed in the line of duty on October 29, 1982, in North Charleston, South Carolina. The encounter began as a traffic stop tied to a suspect believed to have stolen beer. A struggle between the suspect and Officers Hiott and Michael O’Connell ended when the suspect took Officer O’Connell’s service handgun and fatally shot Patrolman Hiott. Officer O’Connell was also severely wounded, losing an eye and suffering hearing damage that ended his law enforcement career.

The suspect, a 21-year-old male, was arrested at the scene. He was later convicted of voluntary manslaughter and aggravated assault and given a 30-year prison term; records show he was released from prison on March 26, 1998. Hiott’s death is recorded as a line-of-duty homicide.

If anyone knew Patrolman Hiott, Officer O’Connell, or witnessed the traffic stop that night, please share what you remember.