Deputy Dee Hurdle was assigned to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Lynwood Station at the time of his murder. When his regular partner called-in sick, Deputy Hurdle teamed up with Deputy Sheriff Trainee Johnny Brown. They were on patrol when they noted suspicious movements and something being thrown from a vehicle with two occupants. The deputies circled around and approached the vehicle from the front. At that point, the vehicle had only one occupant. As the deputies exited their patrol car to investigate, a man appeared from behind the suspect car, firing at them. The deputies returned fire. Although the suspects escaped temporarily, one of them was wounded in the exchange of gunfire. Deputy Hurdle, although wearing a ballistic vest, was shot in the shoulder, the bullet deflected down into his chest. He died from his wound. Deputy Brown was hit in the leg and shoulder. A large containment of the area was established by deputies responding to the call for assistance. The suspects were apprehended (one as the result of assisting deputies following the blood trail from his wounds). The two suspects were subsequently arrested and charged with murder of a police officer and possession of PCP.


Deputy Didier "Dee" Hurdle
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Dept.



Date of Birth: December 24, 1940
Date Appointed: May 15, 1969
End of Watch: November 25, 1977
30 years later, but not forgotten !!!

We, LASD Academy class #369, wish to dedicate our class to the memory of fallen Deputy Didier M. Hurdle.

Thank you, LASD academy class 369
Recruit Hooker, Jason
LASD Academy Class #369


Dee, We were partners for a long time at E.L.A. I remember how we negotiated & bartered with the scheduling Sgt. So we could work together in between trainees. I remember how wonderful it was to be partnered with you and to this day it is the bright spot in my careeer.
When I transferred to the Academy to become a D.I. I hoped you would follow, but you elected to be one of the first to go to Lynwood station when it openend. I remember so many things about you, I remember the fun we had, the great arrests we made, the many nights when we would steal a radio car and go back out in the field after our shift because it was still busy.  I remember the night my daughter Erin was born, you drove my wife and I to the hospital in your new 240Z at a 100 + mph. You stayed with us all night until her birth. I remember how you showered her with gifts on her birthday as if she was your own. I certainly remember your love for Mary and your children Brad and Steve and how proud you were of your new home in Hacienda Heights. I remember like it was yesterday, the night that your life came to such an un expected end as I watched in disbelief as the news flashed your picture on my television. I remember that night seeing you at St. Francis. It just didn't seem possible.  I was honored to be asked to conduct your military funeral honor guard, perhaps the most difficult task in my life.  I think of you often, speak of you in almost every conversation about my past and honor your memory by trying to be half the man you were. Among the many, Judi, Erin and I miss you terribly. Rest in peace my brother.

Sergeant Bob Ouellette Retired
L.A.S.D. Former Partner and best friend


Dee, we never worked together, but the night you were killed you were working with one of my Academy Trainee's at the time (that's what they were called in those days), Let's just call him "J.B." who did an outstanding job after also being wounded in the ensuing gunbattle. You would be pleased to know that this "trainee" went on to become one of the most respected LASD Homocide Investigators/Detetives of the Department (you did good Dee!!) God Bless you partner, your legacy lives on in many !

Rocky Fortner, Lieutenant (RET)
L.A.S.D.
2007-03-14


Dee,
Through the academy, through the highs and lows of everyday life, through the laughs and tears -- and through the years, your friendship has continued to give me strength. We shared much, and still do -- as your life spirit burns within me. It's now been 30 years -- and seldom is the time when you are far from my thoughts. While they did not know you in this life, they certainly know of your meaning to me, and my children join me in sending our love. Thank you for you friendship, love and support -- until then....
Ron
Lt. Ron Dayhoff
LASD - Best Friend