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San Angelo Police Take Over Burpee Death Investigation

By Chelsea Reinhard, May 19, 2014
 

Update Monday, May 19, 9:28 a.m.

Police Chief Tim Vasquez added details to the case Monday morning via telephone, confirming that Stephen Burpee was found in his Jeep by a couple of dirt bikers on a non-descript road out at Twin Buttes Sunday. Vasquez said the location was off the beaten path and the casual visitor to Twin Buttes would not have found it.

The body has been sent to Lubbock for autospy; the results are expected by tomorrow. There were discussions with Goodfellow Air Force Base on how to proceed, Vasquez said, however both entities mutually decided SAPD would handle the investigation.

Vasquez said they do not suspect foul play at this time, however the investigation is just beginning and all possibilities will be explored. 

Update Monday, May 19, 2014 2:00 p.m.

The San Angelo Police Department issued the following statement:

"At approximately 2:18 p.m., two motorcyclists located a vehicle in a heavily wooded area and called 911 to report they observed what they believed to be a body inside the vehicle.

"Lake Division Officers arrived on scene and located a deceased subject inside a Blue Jeep Grand Cherokee.   The San Angelo Police Criminal Investigative Division and Crime Scene Unit also responded.  SAPD detectives on scene confirmed the deceased to be Burpee.    Justice of the Peace McGuire was also called to the scene and ordered an autopsy for the deceased.

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The body of missing Staff Sergeant Stephen Burpee was found Sunday afternoon at Twin Buttes, Sheriff David Jones confirms. His body was found by officers of the San Angelo Police Department, Jones said.

Local news station KIDY reports that Burpee was found deceased in his vehicle Sunday afternoon by dirt bike riders and that the investigation has been turned over to the military.

At around 8:00 p.m. Sunday a Facebook page moderated by family and friends of Burpee updated followers of the news. "Thank you for all your support in looking and through prayer, they have found stephen burpee this afternoon," the post reads. "He has passed away. Please keep rikki and family in your prayer s!"

Burpee went missing on May 13 in San Angelo, sometime after leaving the fire training academy located near Goodfellow Air Force Base. Burpee was due to meet his wife Rikki Burpee at a local gym shortly after 6:00 p.m. for mixed martial arts training, but never showed up.

Rikki Burpee said in an interview Friday that she had been exploring all avenues in an attempt to find her husband; calling and speaking with his coworkers at GAFB and those who last saw him at the fire academy, as well as driving up and down San Angelo streets looking for his vehicle, which was also missing. 

The cause and circumstances surrounding his death have not been released, and the matter is still under investigation. Radio traffic indicated that the San Angelo Police Department was searching the lake area on Wednesday and Thursday last week, but Burpee was not found at that time.

Burpee left behind his wife Rikki and their 7-year-old son Trevor. No longer with a source of income, a gofundme site was set up last week for those wishing to make donations to Mrs. Burpee and her family. Follow this link to contribute. 

More information will be added as it becomes available.

Update -- Noon

The San Angelo Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division is confirming that the body located yesterday in the Twin Buttes area is missing Army Staff Sergeant Stephen Burpee.

At approximately 2:18 p.m. Sunday, two motorcyclists located a vehicle in a heavily wooded area and called 911 to report they observed what they believed to be a body inside the vehicle.

Lake Division Officers arrived on scene and located a deceased subject inside a Blue Jeep Grand Cherokee. The San Angelo Police Criminal Investigative Division and Crime Scene Unit also responded. SAPD detectives on scene confirmed the deceased to be Burpee. Justice of the Peace McGuire was also called to the scene and ordered an autopsy for the deceased.

Burpee was transported to Lubbock, Texas for autopsy. At this time, police do not suspect foul play.

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Comments

bebop, Sun, 05/18/2014 - 22:17
I am glad he is found. I am devastated for his wife and son, as well as all his family. Wishing them comfort in the days ahead.
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My family sends our love and prayers to his family, his military and fire brothers. May you Rest in Peace Sgt. Burpee.
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I feel horrible for this family. That said, as a military spouse myself, I would just feel wrong asking people for more money when I know my spouse has a 400k SGLI life insurance policy that gets paid out no matter what the circumstances of their death.
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Just to clear something up... The fund was set up by a friend who wanted to help the family out in any way possible during a devastating time when they couldn't physically be there for Rikki and her family. Rikki was not "asking" for money. I'm sure their future financial situation was the last thing on her mind when her husband went missing. Especially since the fund was set up prior to finding out he had passed away. Thoughts, love, and prayers to the family in this devastating time.
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As a former instructor at the fire school my condolences go out to SSgt Burpee's family and friends as well as the instructors of Louis F. Garland Fire Academy as they are again mourning the loss of one of their own. Second, Random Pants, as a military spouse you should understand that we in the military lean hard on each other. You should also know that $400k will go very quick and it is not even close to what our active family member is worth. For you to be so incredibly insensitive toward a fellow spouse is amazing to me. And for you to try and preface your comment with a condolence and then tear into the spouse is appalling. Oh and do some research, the SGLI is not paid out for many reasons, suicide and failure to wear proper PPE are just two examples.
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DH72, Mon, 05/19/2014 - 06:44
Really?? It's a shame that you felt the need to say this. Clearly you are uninformed and ignorant. No one, especially the family, wants to know what you think is wrong. You must be new at this military spouse thing or because of statements like that, don't know how we REAL military spouses roll. Feel free to contact me for a class in having class on when to open your mouth and when to shut up.
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I'm sorry for your loss. That poor baby is going to have to be without his father for the rest of his life and you are worried about her trying to get money? Really? U must have no heart for u to say that!! Some people just don't know how to keep their mouths shut.
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jdgt, Mon, 05/19/2014 - 08:07
First and foremost... the sincerest of prayers go out to Rikki, Trevor, and all Steve's family and friends. I can't imagine a more horrible tragedy than to receive word from law enforcement that a beloved family member is unexpectedly deceased. Second... "Random Pants..." how cruel and insensitive can you be? Perhaps if you'd READ the gofundme site that was set up - you'd see that it was a friend who had set it up for Rikki and Trevor prior to learning about the circumstances surrounding her missing husband. There is SO MUCH to be paid for now, without Steve's source of income. She didn't "win the lottery" upon his death. She'll have to pay for living expenses, and now, a funeral. She still has to raise their son... and someday, maybe one (or both of them) will want to attend college and that's not free either. (Kudos to Dana Hunt for saying it better than I ever could! And third... Rob Tidquist... school yourself. http://www.monterey.army.mil/legal/wills/sglideny.pdf
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First - my sincere condolences to his family and friends. May my brother in arms rest in peace! Second, until public information comes out regarding the cause of his death, anything else is speculation. As such, any comments made on this case only serves to create more rumors - rumors that are NOT needed for his family and friends to consider. How Can SGLI Coverage be Forfeited? (Source: Dept of VA, http://benefits.va.gov/insurance/sgli.asp) The coverage provided by the SGLI program will be forfeited only when an insured member is found guilty of mutiny, treason, spying, or desertion, or refuses, because of conscientious objections, to perform service in the Armed Forces of the United States, or refuses to wear the uniform of such force. No insurance shall be payable for death inflicted as a lawful punishment for crime or for military or naval offense except when inflicted by an enemy of the United States. A good primer on Survivor Benefits: (Source: http://www.loc.gov/rr/frd/Military_Law/pdf/Survivor-Benefits.pdf)
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Renea, Mon, 05/19/2014 - 11:16
I'm am so surprised foul play wasn't the first expectation of this! I know it's still being investigated and I pray they ask the RIGHT people about this situation. Family and friends get to get a better understanding of this horrible incident and a better peace of mind. This outcome is so sad and the search a friend and I did was emotional! This gentleman is going to be missed! I'm sorry for his family and friends.
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My prayers and condolences go out to the loved ones of Staff Sergeant Stephen Burpee. As for the obviously ignorant comment made about insurance, I think that was a cruel and unthinkable thing to say. The most considerate thing to do would be to make a sincere apology to his wife and family.
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bebop, Mon, 05/19/2014 - 13:09
Interesting that it took regular people to find this man, after "searches by law enforcement." What did LE do, never leave the pavement out there? Unnecessarily tragic, to do a light look-over and leave it to the citizenry to find this vehicle.
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Smy, Mon, 05/19/2014 - 14:20
I know this family personally, grew up with his wife, she was my best friend we all graduated high school together, how can someone so cruelly comment something to the effects that Rikki was trying to get money out of people? I'm appalled at people... The fund was set up by friends, and set up when he was still missing, I have no doubt in my mind she wasn't thinking about life insurance but how do I tell my little boy his daddy's never coming home again, or I'll never see my husband again. Prayers and love to you Rikki Burpee for your strength and service as an army wife to our country and to you Stephen Burpee for your service to our country!!
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Nina, you seem to have a penchant for flaming. N'est pas? Despite your ill attempt to derail this conversation, the final point is that a valuable member of our community was found - regardless by whom. Perhaps, you could be a valuable member of the community by using your words to make the world a better place. ...or continue your flaming ...but remember, karma's a *****!
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Nope. I stand by my original comment. Maybe it was the way the article was written but I just found the comment that his paychecks were going to stop strange. Had to ask myself and some others if it really works that way and the consensus was "no", but I suppose I could be wrong. No where was the family friend quoted in the article or was it indicated that a third party set up the fund. On top of that, the $5000 fundraising goal was over the top to me considering the cost of living in San Angelo and the fact that this soldier may have possibly gone AWOL. Sorry, my comment would have been said for any soldier in this situation, including my own spouse. I would not ask for money if s/he were AWOL, missing, whatever. I would not be okay with my friends asking for it. Everyone responds differently in stressful situations, but to me it would be wrong to pander at such a time. And nobody even implied that she "cashed out" or whatever words your moral outrage used to make a value - based judgement against me. I want everyone here screaming for an apology to think really long and hard if they would give money to that poor family down the street devastated by meth in the same situation. Heaven knows they don't have half the safety net this family does.
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No worries Random Pants. The great thing is that this service member served to protect your right to be ignorant and defamatory, while the meth-head served no purpose at all.
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Oh no, you called me names, what ever will I do? You're right, though; no worries. Your comment proves my point better than anything further I could say.
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My Prayers go out to Rikki and Trevor. I can not even begin to imagine the heartbreak and devastation they are feeling at this VERY sad sad time. My heart is broken for them. Especially the very young Trevor. God, please wrap your loving arms around him, let your presence be known to him, and begin your healing on him as only you can do. Then please begin this same thing with with Rikki. Also Lord, please forgive Random Pants for making such a cruel and insensitive comment. Help them to see the error of their way and guide them as they make a sincere public apology to the wife and son of this deceased soldier. Amen..........
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I am so very sorry and am trying to remind myself that we at least know where he is and what happened to him, the not knowing is horrendous. He was a good kid/man and I wish him peace. May God bless you and keep you Rikki and Trevor.
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I just wonder what he was doing out at the lake? He was supposed to meet his wife at the gym at 6:00 and ended up way out there. Police do not suspect foul play at this time? Hmmm... OK. I know everyone is grieving for his family right now but this seems like the 1000 pound gorilla in the room to me.
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jdgt, Mon, 05/19/2014 - 21:01
You know something? We're all human... we ALL want to know exactly where he was and exactly how he got there and exactly how he died. HOWEVER - it's absolutely NONE of our business. The details that can be shared with the public, will be shared as they become available, no doubt. For the time being, have some freakin' sympathy for this family.
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insensitive is the word... some comments are not appropriate when someone has died. as above we are human and i know most everyone is curious but even speculating or doubting the police findings of no foul play are insensitive. an appology may not be needed given this is a forum to comment and give opinions. think about the family and that they might read these posts.
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Renea, Tue, 05/20/2014 - 06:57
I feel the comment about people being insensitive is just questionable. I know things about this gentleman that other people in the community do not and probly will not know, so knowing that the foul play may be ruled out is an emotional feeling right now. Insensitive is hearing that the past problems are brought up as in drug use or suicide. Hearing about the future and positive thoughts from this man were amazing bc he knew what he wanted outta life! So the questionable insensitive thoughts i have are why go back to his past when you should know thats the past and he left that there, he was ready for the future..
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i was actually trying not to rant on an article that announced a man's death. the article mentioned the SAPD does not suspect foul play. I happen to have seen a few death scenes in my day. While most of us are not detectives, when there is no foul play about 99.9% of us would be able to tell the cause of death and circumstances surrounding the death. The phrase "it does not take a detective to figure that out" is actually true when foul play is ruled out. it is usually cut and dry and simple to see out what happened. while i sometimes question the police department, in this case i am sure they are right in ruling out foul play.
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Now might be a good time to end the discussion on this topic. It seems we can't just sympathize with mom and child and let the healing begin...
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bebop, Tue, 05/20/2014 - 17:45
um, Joe Blow, I don't get your "flaming" comment, as, in this thread, I was the first to offer condolences, I made no personal attacks, and I merely speculated how strange it was that, despite a search in that area by law enforcement, it was people out riding bikes who found this man. Nothing flaming about that, merely musing on how odd that was, a not-very-thorough search. I have friends who are cops. But I still think the search by authorities was very limited. What is the karma you think I deserve? If you'll note, there is a nasty bunch of posts all around mine, but I flamed no one. I'd caution you not to threaten me.
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Regardless of the circumstances behind his death. He was a hero that was called to Heaven and now he will be missed by family and friends. Everyone is hurting for his early departure but now he is resting in a better place than most of us dont know. May he rest in peace next to God.
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Whomever this Random Pants is needs to dig whatever crawled up his or her backside and died out, it's making this individual obviously toxic. Let's explain it again so that even a dummy can understand. A fund was set up in the families name by a friend of the family. The wife of this soldier did not "pander", "beg", "ask", "request", or "order", anybody to raise, give, donate, or loan her any money. Now, I don't really think it is all that difficult to follow along. Besides, what difference does it make if her friends want to offer monetary support to her and her children during this tragic time? They're not your friends, and it's not your money, so why do you care? So, here's the thing; I hope no one in your family croaks in an unfortunate or tragic manner and I certainly hope that not one of your friends takes mercy on you and offers any kind of monetary support to help you in any way shape or form. Because, if they do so and you accept it, then that would not only make you a hypocrite but also a liar. However, you are correct, I couldn't care less about the meth head that blows their house up, stupid is as stupid does and I don't know anyone that would throw away good money after bad.
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Obvious question- that was a shitty thing of you to say! You & random pants need to shut your mouth unless you are praying or apologizing to the Burpee family! They don't need to be reading things like this when they are trying to bury their husband/father. You are both cold hearted. Who are you both to judge anyways? Is god hiring? Anyone who defended their country is a hero in anyone's eyes. I will send out an extra prayer for you both tonight. You both really need it.
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jdgt, Wed, 05/21/2014 - 21:33
Chelsea, is there no way to disable comments? Nothing left here but a bunch of trolls and disrespectful little children... To the rest of you - I can bet that Steve's close family and friends have far more important things to deal with right now than checking the rants here on Live. You bugs need to all go flutter around some other porch light.
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I've not red anything inflammatory or intentionally mean spirited on this thread, and so I'm going to disagree with the suggestions regarding censoring the posts. The notion that a comment thread regarding someone's death should be limited to cliche, consoling one-liners and religious overtones is a pretty closed minded approach. "Thoughts and prayers" makes for a great Hallmark card, but does little for an open and honest dialogue. On the theory of suicide: I believe that a man's life is his own. For better or worse he chooses his own path, which may indeed include ending his life when it's perils outweigh it's pleasures. While many denounce suicide as a self centered act, so too is the supposition that one's opinions against suicide should take precedence over and minimize the torments of the person in question. With that said, suicide is not always without it's victims and those contemplating it should (at the very least) evaluate the consequences and pitfalls which their loved ones will indeed face at the time of their passing. Leaving behind a few unpaid bills is one thing, leaving a spouse and young children is entirely different -- and many people WILL judge you harshly for this. Untimely death or occupation does not (and should not) relinquish one from personal responsibility. Poor choices and self destructive lifestyles negatively affect everyone who depends on you, even more so in the event of your passing. Suddenly your employer is out an employee, your wife without a husband, your kids without a father, your pets without a caretaker and so on. If you're on a road to ruin, most likely you're very aware of it. Consider the repercussions and prioritize your responsibilities. If you've found your thrills to be well worth the losses, have at it -- however keep in mind that while you may have done plenty good, many will still take note of the bad and be just as adamant in seeing you as a villain as others are in painting you in the light of a hero.
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jdgt, Sat, 05/24/2014 - 12:08
There was an outpouring of support and no hesitation to donate to help the Burpees out... Praise GOD for that community outreach. The coverage for Brandon Lawson has dwindled... it's time to get this man home to his family: http://www.youcaring.com/other/help-aide-search-for-brandon-lawson/181900
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live, Thu, 05/29/2014 - 13:38

The autopsy results have not been released by the authorities. My understanding from asking around is that the Lubbock autopsy lab has not released a preliminary yet, but it is expected at any hour now. The toxology report will take much longer.

The answer that the autopsy may reveal places our scrappy news org in a difficult situation. If there is no murder suspected, that leaves an accident or the other unmentionable as the remaining possibilities.

Joe

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