The Tampa Police Department honors detectives killed during the 1998 murder investigation

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Tampa police and residents across the Bay Area paused to commemorate the lives of two detectives who died on duty that day in 1998.

Detective Randy Bell, 44, and Detective Ricky Childers, 46, tragically died Tuesday, May 19, 1998 while investigating a murder.

Police said the suspect, who claimed under a false identity that he was a grieving father, shot dead both officers as they were driving back to police headquarters.

“Detective Bell and Detective Childers, your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Tampa Police said. “We honor you today and always.”

The department said it is also remembering Florida Highway Patrol Trooper James Crook, who was killed on duty trying to stop the suspect after stealing a truck and fleeing the scene.