Sarasota Set to Honor Fallen Officer

Sarasota Police Officer Warren David Jones is gone, but he’s not forgotten.

To mark the 40th anniversary of Jones’ death in the line of duty, the department plans to unveil honorary street signs this Friday. A ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. outside the Sarasota Police Department headquarters at 2099 Adams Lane. The signs will be placed along Adams between East and Links avenues.

Jones, the only Sarasota officer killed in the line of duty, was shot and killed with his own firearm on April 5, 1975. The incident unfolded after Jones spotted a man stealing gas from a station at 1450 Mango St. When Jones tried to arrest the man in question, the suspect resisted and managed to wrestle the gun away from Jones, an email to media from the department stated.

During the scuffle that ensued, Jones was shot in the chest. He was able to call for backup, but was beaten with a flashlight before help could arrive. Jones died from his injuries that evening.

According to the department, Henry Lee Washington was the suspect in the case. Washington fled the area, but was located in Fort Myers a few days later. He, however, committed suicide, the email stated.

The new signs honoring Jones’ memory are coming at no cost to taxpayers. The Southwest Florida Police Benevolent Association is picking up the tab, the department noted.

“It’s important that we never forget Officer Jones and the ultimate sacrifice he made for our community,” said Sgt. Lori Jaress, who spearheaded the effort to honor Jones. “With the 40th anniversary approaching, I felt it was important to honor Officer Jones’ legacy.”

Photo of Officer Warren David Jones courtesy of the Sarasota Police Department

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