Idaho Fallen Deputy Leaves a Family Behind, Here’s How to Help

Idaho mourns the loss of a fallen law enforcement officer.

Idahoans are heartbroken and livid over the shocking and senseless death of one of our finest. Deputy Tobin Bolter, 27, was responding to a routine traffic stop on Saturday, April 20, 2024 when the driver of a gray Chevy Suburban pulled a gun on the young officer.

According to Ada County Sheriff's Office, it was nearly 9:00 pm when the unnamed 65-year-old suspect fired his weapon at Deputy Bolton moments before he fled the scene near W. Overland Rd. and S. Raymond St. in Boise.

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Deputy Bolter's assailant had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.

During a Sunday news conference, Ada County Sheriff Matt Clifford confirmed the suspect had a $3,000 outstanding misdemeanor warrant for his arrest. Still, Clifford was unable to speak to exactly what motivated the suspect to fire at the officer.

Clifford told reporters Bolter "never even made it to the window."

Boise law enforcement apprehended the gunman just after midnight.

Approximately 30 minutes after the shooting, the Boise Police Department's Special Operations Unit began a manhunt for the suspect after finding his unoccupied truck off S. Roosevelt and W. Dorian streets.

During a peaceful attempt to bring him into custody, the uncooperative 65-year-old turned his weapon on BPD Special Operators. The Idaho State Journal reported he was shot and kill just after midnight on Sunday, April 21.

The deputy had his entire life and career ahead of him.

Bolter, a seven-year law enforcement veteran, had succumbed to his wounds minutes before Clifford's Sunday morning press brief began. With seven years of law enforcement experience, Bolter previously served on the Meridian Police Department and Pleasant Hill City Police Department in California. He started with ASCO in January this year.

Bolton is survived by his beautiful family.

On Sunday evening, ASCO expressed their gratitude for the community's unbelievable support, and addressed the different ways locals can support the Bolton family.

Flags are being flown at half-staff mast for Deputy Bolter.

Per Idaho Code 67-820, Gov. Little issued a press release on April 21 ordering all U.S. flags and Idaho state flags to be flown at half-staff until the day after after Bolter's memorial service.

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