Patrolman Melton was shot and killed Thursday, April 21, 1977, after he and another officer arrested two men for public intoxication. While walking one of the men to the patrol wagon a scuffle ensued and an officer's handgun came free from its holster. The suspect picked up the gun and shot Patrolman Melton in the chest. The suspect was charged with 1st Degree Murder but was acquitted as the defense portrayed him as being the victim of police brutality.

Patrolman Melton served with the Des Moines Police Department for four years and was survived by his wife and two children. He was 25 years old.

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