Robert Henry Potter
Assistant Police Chief
Tulia Police Department
End of Watch: December 25, 1960
Born on May 8, 1919, in Swisher County, Texas, Robert Henry “Bob” Potter was a proud native son of Tulia, who honorably served his country in the United States Army during World War II, including service in the South Pacific Theater.
Following his military service, he dedicated himself to protecting his community through law enforcement. He served four years as a deputy with the Swisher County Sheriff’s Office before joining the Tulia Police Department, where he spent the final eight months of his career as Assistant Chief of Police.
Assistant Chief Potter tragically gave his life in the line of duty during the early morning hours of Christmas Day, December 25, 1960, while investigating a burglary in progress in Tulia, Texas.
Assistant Chief Potter was remembered by colleagues and citizens alike for his courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to public service.
His ultimate sacrifice was recognized posthumously when he was awarded the National Police Officers Association’s Medal of Merit for extraordinary heroism and valor above and beyond the call of duty.
Assistant Chief Potter was survived by his wife and three children.
END OF WATCH: DECEMBER 25, 1960
In the early morning hours of Christmas, 1960, Assistant Chief Potter responded to suspicious activity at a restaurant. As he approached and challenged the suspects, one of the men slipped out the rear of the restaurant, circled behind him, and opened fire at close range. Assistant Chief Potter was struck by gunfire and succumbed to his wounds at the scene.
The three suspects fled in separate directions before stealing a vehicle from a nearby labor camp. An immediate manhunt involving local and regional law enforcement agencies led to their capture later that morning near Canyon, Texas.
Investigation revealed the men were escaped inmates from the Madison County Jail in Indiana and had been on a multi-state crime spree involving numerous burglaries and vehicle thefts. All three were convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment.