Deputy Didier M. Hurdle, 36, was killed in a shootout on November 25, 1977, in the Willowbrook area of Los Angeles County. Hurdle and a cadet trainee, Deputy Sheriff Trainee Johnny Brown, were on patrol when they observed suspicious movements and something thrown from a vehicle with two occupants. As they approached, a man emerged and opened fire. Hurdle was struck in the shoulder; the bullet deflected into his chest and proved fatal. Deputy Brown was wounded in the leg and shoulder.

The suspects were described as gang members. One suspect was wounded during the exchange, leaving a blood trail that led responding deputies to capture both occupants. Both were arrested and charged with murder of a police officer and possession of PCP; the primary suspect, 25 at the time, was later convicted of second-degree murder on May 26, 1979, and received an 11-year sentence. Hurdle had served with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for over eight years and was honored posthumously with a memorial interchange near Century Station.

Were there witnesses in the Willowbrook area who saw the vehicle or the shooting that night?