RICHMOND, Va. — Col. W. Gerald Massengill, a former Virginia State Police superintendent, died Wednesday morning at his home.
Massengill worked for the Virginia State Police from 1966 until he retired in 2003.
“Colonel Massengill was a highly respected leader with a steadfast commitment to serving and protecting the great Commonwealth of Virginia,” said Virginia State Police Superintendent Col. Gary T. Settle. “During his extensive tenure with the State Police, Colonel Massengill was known for his calm, kind, and compassionate demeanor. We are deeply saddened by his passing. He will be greatly missed.”
As a state trooper, he was assigned to Isle of Wight County before being promoted to sergeant in 1975, covering Tazewell County. He was then promoted to lieutenant and assigned to the Richmond Division. He became the safety officer after being promoted captain of the safety division in 1993. He then achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel and became director of the Bureau of Field operations. After six years, he was promoted to superintendent in 2000.
Massengill was superintendent under former Governors Jim Gilmore and Mark Warner, and his tenure included the 9/11 attacks and the sniper incidents in Washington, D.C.
Four years after his retirement, he was called back to serve the commonwealth by leading the panel that investigated the mass shooting at Virginia Tech.
Massengill lived in Dinwiddie County, where his son is now the county administrator.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin offered a statement Wednesday afternoon, saying Col. Massengill "dedicated his life to the safety and well-being of Virginians."
“His tenure as Superintendent under Governors Gilmore and Warner was marked by integrity, resilience, and a profound dedication to duty. Beyond his professional achievements, Colonel Massengill was a mentor and inspiration to many in law enforcement, leaving an indelible mark on the Virginia State Police and the broader community," Youngkin said. “We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the honor of serving alongside him. His legacy of service and sacrifice will continue to inspire future generations."
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