michael E. Webster
Agency: Missouri State Highway Patrol, MO
Corporal Michael Webster was a compassionate and kind-hearted man. Mike’s character really shines in the story of his investigating a traffic accident in which a 34-year-old father, a 32-year-old mother, and a two-year-old son were killed. Mike visited the surviving child at the hospital on three occasions, including once when the six-year-old's grandparents came from England to the hospital where she stayed. In addition, Mike did not allow the callousness of some officers, to overshadow his compassion and kindness for the people he policed.
Corporal Michael Webster was killed when he was struck by a drunk driver during a traffic stop on Highway 40 in Blue Springs, Missouri at approximately 3:00 am. As Corporal Webster spoke with the driver of the vehicle he pulled over, the drunk driver struck his patrol car, then the stopped vehicle, and then hit Corporal Webster. He was flown to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries at 7:05 pm October 2, 1993.
Corporal Webster had served with the Missouri State Highway Patrol for 9 years. He was survived by his wife, a 6-year-old daughter, and a 20-month-old son.
In 1995 a 10-mile stretch of Highway 40 was renamed in Cpl. Webster’s honor. Also in his honor, each year the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop A hosts a blood drive. As a Missouri State Highway Patrolman, Webster knew first-hand the importance of blood donations and he donated blood regularly. Central Jackson County EMS responded to the initial 9-1-1 call for medical assistance for Webster. As a result of his injuries, Webster received over 40 units of blood before succumbing to his injuries. CJCFPD Assistant Chief Paul Lininger says, “As a result, we have a special spot in our heart for him and his family. It has been an honor to promote this blood drive and help save lives on his behalf.”
The second photo on the right was taken on March 10, 2012. Corporal Webster's daughter Alana has grown into a beautiful bride. She attended college on the education benefits provided by MASTERS. On her wedding day, she is pictured with her mother; Kathey, and Brother Elliott. Her father loved his family we know he would have been so proud of the young lady she has become. Alana always knew her father continued to watch over her and the family wanted Michael's Patrol Hat at the wedding as a symbol that Dad was a part of his daughter's wedding. Michael's family and all those who worked with him knew what a special person he was, we are committed that his service and the sacrifice he made will never be forgotten.
Reflections:
Officer Webster came to notify me of my wife’s death. He was kind, he helped, when I wanted to do something stupid he held me, took my gun away, talked to me, made me relize I had children I had to raise. Without him I may be dead today, my children without either parent. He made a difference in my life that I will never forget. I owe him everything because without his caring and compassion I would not be here loving my family today. I will never be able to repay the debt I owe to this finest of men on this side of life. I look forward to the day when I shall be able to tell him just how much he did for me and my boys. Corporal Webster you are my greatest Hero!
Charles Baldree
Husband of wife killed in accident
References: