Kenneth D. Ell was a 36-year-old deputy with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department who died on January 19, 1982, in Westmont, California, while on duty. He and Deputy Thomas Hart were responding to assist other deputies at a domestic violence call when they confronted an armed suspect. The suspect drew a handgun and Deputy Hart fired; a bullet from Hart’s revolver struck a solid object, splintered, and a fragment fatally wounded Deputy Ell in the head.

Deputy Ell had served 14 years with the department and was remembered by colleagues for his dedication. The suspect was a convicted felon. The shooting was ruled accidental and no arrests or charges were filed against Deputy Hart; reports indicate the fatal shot resulted from a splintered fragment during Hart’s attempt to stop the armed suspect. No significant litigation related to the incident was reported.

If anyone knew Deputy Ell or has information about that case, please share what you can.