In Memoriam: Detective Percy L. “Perc” Clark

Detective Clark was shot and killed during an armed robbery on January 11, 1973.

The 42-year-old victim and other officers were conducting a stakeout of a pharmacy located at 564 Third Avenue. Information from an informant had revealed that the pharmacy would be robbed. At approximately 2100, two suspects arrived and were in the process of robbing the pharmacist when the victim left a position of cover and moved closer to the doorway.

As the suspects exited, Detective Clark called for their surrender. He was shot in the head with a 9mm handgun. The suspect who fired the shot was immediately killed by other officers. The second suspect surrendered and was eventually committed to the State Hospital. Detective Clark was married and the father of seven children. He is buried in Salt Lake City Cemetery.

If you have memories or photos of Officer Clark to share, please email policehistory@slcgov.com or call (801) 799-3340.

The Police Department wishes to thank the Utah Law Enforcement Memorial for its assistance in this remembrance.