In Memoriam: TABC Remembers Officer Delbert H. Pearson

Forty-nine years ago today, Delbert H. Pearson was the first commissioned officer of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission to die in the line of duty.

Inspector Pearson was killed on Jan. 18, 1973, after identifying himself while confronting a suspect in an illegal whiskey stash investigation.

Originally from Paris, Texas, Pearson served with TABC for nearly 21 years and was 55 at the time of his death.

In 2020, TABC created the Pearson Award in his honor. The award is given to the graduate of the TABC Agent Academy who demonstrates the top physical skills performance in the class.

Pearson was survived by his wife and two daughters.