Officer Richard W. Simpson, an Arlington Police Officer, died on October 24, 1990, at age 44. He was in Montana on a hunting trip with fellow officers when he suffered a heart attack.

Born in Dallas and a lifelong Arlington resident, Simpson graduated from Sam Houston High School before joining the Arlington Police Department in 1971. He served on the APD’s Special Tactical Unit and as Lake Officer for 13 years. In 1986, he received acclaim for his heroic actions during a hostage situation, and he earned a total of three life-saving awards throughout his career.

Richard Simpson (1945-1990)

Remembered as a model officer, genuine friend, and devoted father, he also served as a mentor to youngsters at the lake—one likening him to a John Wayne type. An avid outdoorsman, Simpson loved hunting, boating, and enjoying a campfire. He also had a lighter side, being known to dress up his dog as Dolly Parton for Halloween.

His death shocked fellow officers, as he was young and in good health. He was buried at Moore Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Arlington.

He is the namesake for Richard W. Simpson Park at Lake Arlington.

Richard W. Simpson Park at Lake Arlington
Photo Credit: City of Arlington

“Officer dies on Montana hunting trip”
Fort Worth Star-Telegram – October 25, 1990
Newspapers.com

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Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 10-24-25