National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

Officer Rank: Police Officer

Memorial Panel: 48-E: 23

Department: California Highway Patrol

End of Watch: November 2, 2003

Cause: SHOT

Age: 39

Years of Service: 19

Description: Officer Coulter was accidentally shot and killed while placing his department issued shotgun in its electronic lock in his patrol car. As Officer Coulter attempted to position the shotgun between the two front seats, the weapon discharged, killing Officer Coulter instantly. The accident occurred shortly after his shift had begun at 0600 hours. A fellow officer discovered Officer Coulter's body in his patrol car at 0930 hours.