VACP Mourns Passing of Retired Virginia State Police Superintendent W. Gerald Massengill

• By: VACP
• On: 01/01/2025 23:55:32
• In: VACP News

The VACP was saddened to learn of the passing of retired Virginia State Police Superintendent W. Gerald Massengill on January 1, 2025. We remember him fondly and send our condolences to his family. Funeral arrangements are now available:
 
Colonel Massengill proudly served the VSP for 37 years from 1966 to 2003. He lead the department as Superintendent from 2000 to 2003, through the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attack on the Pentagon and the D.C.-Virginia sniper shootings. During his extensive tenure with State Police, Colonel Massengill was known for his calm, kind, and compassionate demeanor. He was recognized among his law-enforcement peers for his steadfast commitment to being effective and fair.
  
In 2010, Colonel Massengill was recognized by the VACP with the Outstanding Contribution to Law Enforcement Award for both his time with VSP and his continued service to the Commonwealth and to Virginia law enforcement after his retirement. In 2003, Colonel Massengill answered the call to serve Virginia's public safety family as Executive Director of the Virginia Public Safety Foundation. Then, in 2005, he was appointed by Governor Mark Warner to serve as Interim Director of the Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries to help the agency regain its footing after being embroiled in controversy.

In 2006, Massengill completed his interim appointment at DGIF and retired from state government... again. But he was once more called into service in 2007 by Governor Tim Kaine to lead an eight-member panel charged with investigating various aspects of the Virginia Tech school massacre. The panel, under his steady direction and guidance, succeeded in providing comprehensive recommendations that have since been enacted into law and prompted substantial changes in state and school policy. 

During his tenure in law enforcement, and his service on the Virginia State Crime Commission, Colonel Massengill always considered what was best for Virginians and Virginia law enforcement. He worked closely with federal, state, local, campus and special law enforcement agencies to promote professionalism and cooperation in the public safety community.

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin also issued a statement honoring Colonel Massengill's life and service, which can be read HERE.