Jeremy Nicholas Henwood, a 36-year-old police officer with the San Diego Police Department, tragically lost his life on August 6, 2011, in an unprovoked attack. Henwood, who was also a Captain in the United States Marine Corps Reserves, had recently returned from deployment in Afghanistan. On the day of his death, Henwood was on patrol in the Mid-City Division of San Diego.
While stopped at a traffic light at the intersection of University Avenue and 45th Street, he was approached by a vehicle flashing its lights. As Henwood pulled into the right lane, the driver of the vehicle, Dejon Marquee White, pulled alongside him and opened fire with a shotgun, striking Henwood in the head. This attack occurred just minutes after White had randomly shot another individual in the face at a nearby fast-food restaurant.
Henwood was immediately provided medical assistance by two citizens who witnessed the shooting and used his radio to notify dispatchers. Despite being rushed to Scripps Mercy Hospital, Henwood succumbed to his injuries early the next morning. The suspect, Dejon Marquee White, was identified and located shortly after the shooting. White had confessed to the shootings to a woman who then called 911. When police officers arrived at the scene, White attempted to flee and reached for his shotgun, prompting the officers to fatally shoot him.
The investigation into Henwood's death revealed that the attack was entirely unprovoked and random. White had a history of criminal behavior and was known to law enforcement. The incident sparked a significant outpouring of grief and support from the community, as well as from Henwood's colleagues in both the police department and the Marine Corps. Henwood was remembered for his dedication to service, his acts of kindness, and his commitment to his duties as both a police officer and a Marine. His death highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and led to calls for increased support and protection for those serving in such roles.
