Robert D. Melton was a Gardena Police Department officer who died on November 1, 2003, at age 61 from complications tied to gunshot wounds he suffered on June 3, 1981. On that day Melton and his partner were flagged down about a robbery near Compton Boulevard (now Gardena Boulevard) and Vermont Avenue and told an elderly man had been pushed into nearby bushes. As the officers approached a male suspect opened fire with a rifle, critically wounding Officer Melton. Melton’s partner returned fire and killed the assailant at the scene. The robbery victim’s body was later found in the bushes about 50 yards from where Melton was shot.

Melton never fully recovered from his injuries and spent the rest of his life in a wheelchair; his weakened condition prevented needed heart surgery and contributed to his death. No further arrests or suspects were made because the shooter was killed at the scene. Melton’s service and sacrifice were commemorated by the Gardena Police Department and colleagues.

If anyone has memories of Officer Melton or information about the June 3, 1981 incident, please share what you know.