The Austin police officer best known for killing the University of Texas Tower sniper has died.
Officer Houston McCoy shot and killed Charles Whitman on Aug. 1, 1966, after Whitman killed 16 people and wounded 32 from the observation deck atop the UT Tower.
The 72 year-old McCoy died today of complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
“It is with a heavy heart that I report the passing of former APD Officer Houston McCoy,” said Austin Police Department Chief Art Acevedo in a statement. “I was privileged to have met and spent time with Houston and his wonderful family the past few years and will miss him dearly. Please take a moment to pray for Houston and his family.”
Funeral services for McCoy are being arranged.
