WWW.REVENUE-OFFICER.ORG: HISTORIC IN THE LINE OF DUTY DEATHS

Honor. Integrity. Sacrifice.

Since the founding of the Bureau of Internal Revenue in 1862, the men and women of the Internal Revenue Service have stood at the front lines of American civil service. While the image of the Revenue Officer is often one of ledgers and law, it is also one of profound courage.

This page is dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives in the line of duty. From the rugged mountain trails of the Prohibition era to the modern field offices of today, these public servants gave their lives to uphold the laws of our nation and the financial integrity of the United States.

"To those who served with honor, we remember."

HISTORIC IN THE LINE OF DUTY DEATHS

The Revenue Officers (Civil Collection)

Revenue Officers work unarmed, often entering difficult situations to resolve tax debts. Only two have been killed in the line of duty in the agency's modern history.This section serves as a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice while ensuring the integrity of the American tax system.

Michael J. Dillon (September 23, 1983)

The Incident: Killed while attempting to collect a $500 tax debt at a private residence in Cheektowaga, NY. He was shot by a former IRS employee.

Legacy: The Buffalo federal courthouse was renamed the Michael J. Dillon Memorial United States Courthouse in 1987. The IRS also established the "Michael Dillon Revenue Officer of the Year Award" as its highest honor for collection staff.

Vernon Hunter (February 18, 2010)

The Incident: A Group Manager killed during the domestic terror attack in Austin, Texas, when a pilot intentionally crashed a plane into the Echelon I office building.

Legacy: A veteran of the Vietnam War and a 27-year IRS employee, Hunter is remembered for his kindness and mentorship.

The Special Agents (Criminal Investigation)

Special Agents are armed law enforcement officers. Their work involves high-stakes investigations into money laundering, organized crime, and tax fraud.

Patrick C. Bauer (August 17, 2023):

Killed during a routine training exercise at a firing range in Phoenix, Arizona.

Paul Douglas Ice (April 19, 1995):

Killed in the Oklahoma City Bombing at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.

Claude Arthur Medearis (April 19, 1995):

Also killed in the Oklahoma City Bombing.

David Henry Feick (June 28, 1991):

Killed in a vehicle accident while on official duty.

Howard R. Stuart-Houston (September 14, 1989):

Died during a tactical training exercise.