Delia D'Ambra

He's buried in a cemetery in Jasper County, Texas.

It seems J.D.

Murphree's name and legacy took center stage in the follow-up reporting over the years.

For example, in 1992 at the East Texas Police Academy, his name was added to a memorial marker for 41 peace officers who'd been killed in the line of duty over the years.

Gus Engling's name, that wildlife biologist I mentioned earlier, was also inscribed on that memorial.

After J.D.

's death, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department named a patch of land in the area the J.D.

Murphree Wildlife Management Area.

It still exists today and is located in Port Arthur, Texas.

With the proper permits, visitors can watch animals there or take pictures, as well as participate in seasonal hunts for hogs, alligators, and waterfowl.

It's still considered a critical nursery habitat for a variety of duck species and other migratory birds, and is a key breeding ground for the American alligator and wetland mammals like the swamp rabbit, muskrat, eastern cottontail rabbit, coyote, armadillo, and bobcat.

I have to think that if JD were still alive, he'd be proud to know that the land he tried to protect on the day of his death has gone on to thrive and become a place of refuge for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.

Park Predators is an AudioChuck production.

You can view a list of all the source material for this episode on our website, parkpredators.com.

You can also follow Park Predators on Instagram, at Park Predators.

I think Chuck would approve.

Hi everyone, it's Delia D'Ambra here, and I want to tell you about a podcast that's one of my personal favorites that I know you're going to love, too.

Dark Down East.

Hosted by my friend and fellow investigative journalist Kylie Lowe, Dark Down East dives into New England's most haunting true crime cases.

From unsolved mysteries to stories where justice has been served, Kylie brings her meticulous research and heartfelt storytelling to uncover the truth behind these cases.