The Kansas Highway Patrol is remembering its fallen troopers. From the Kansas Highway Patrol Facebook page:
John Bryant McMurray was born on February 22, 1936, in Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from St. John's Military School in 1955 and attended the University of Iowa, where he studied mathematics and chemistry. McMurray served in the United States Air Force from 1957 to 1962.
McMurray joined the Kansas Highway Patrol on October 1, 1962, and attended Patrol School at the University of Kansas. Upon graduation, he was stationed in Manhattan.
On December 6, 1964, at 12:41 a.m., Trooper McMurray was working with Trooper Jay Locy and Trooper Donald Burns on a speed enforcement lane on K-18 between Manhattan and Ogden. The three Troopers had their patrol cars parked on the shoulder of K-18. McMurray was standing behind his car (the middle of the three patrol cars), putting his camera into the trunk.
A drunk driver, later found to have a Blood Alcohol Content of .168, passed the first patrol car then swerved onto the shoulder, striking McMurray and the rear of his car. McMurray suffered severe injuries in the collision.
McMurray died of his injuries on December 9, 1964, at the hospital. The drunk driver was convicted of Driving Under the Influence and Manslaughter.
Trooper McMurray was survived by his wife and daughter.
The Kansas Highway Patrol was formed and shaped by many men and women who came before each one of us. The legacy the Patrol enjoys today is due in part to the brave men and women who have answered the call for service, ten of whom made the ultimate sacrifice.
Today, we encourage you to think of Trooper John McMurray, his family members, and friends who were left behind. We should all be grateful for his service.
Trooper John McMurray
End of Watch: December 9, 1964
#NeverForgotten
#HonorTheFallen