Officer Down

Police Officer Matthew Scott Baxter
Kissimmee Police Department, Florida
End of Watch: Friday, August 18, 2017
Age: 27
Tour: 3 years

Sergeant Richard Samuel Howard
Kissimmee Police Department, Florida
End of Watch: Saturday, August 19, 2017
Age: 36
Tour: 10 years


Police Officer Matthew Baxter and Sergeant Sam Howard were shot and killed while responding to reports of three suspicious people in the area of Palmway Street and Cypress Street at approximately 9:30 pm.

They were speaking to the men when a scuffle ensued and both officers shot. Both were transported to Osceola Regional Medical Center where Officer Baxter was pronounced dead. Sergeant Howard passed away the following afternoon.

The subject who shot him was arrested approximately two hours after the shooting by members of the Osceola County Sheriff's Office. Two handguns were found in his possession when he was arrested.

Officer Baxter served with the Kissimmee Police Department for three years. He is survived by his wife and three children

Sergeant Howardwas a U.S Army veteran and had served with the Kissimmee Police Department for 10 years. He is survived by his wife and one child.

Rest in Peace Gentlemen…We Got The Watch

Nemo me impune lacessit

Day is done, Gone the sun, From the lake, From the hills, From the sky. All is well, Safely rest, God is nigh.