Charles Moose, police chief who led the DC sniper investigation, dies

Former Montgomery County Police Chief, Charles Moose, who led the infamous DC Sniper investigation, has died at 68.

Charles Moose passes away

According to a Facebook post by Montgomery County Police, Moose’s wife confirmed he passed away at his home on Thanksgiving.

“We are extremely saddened by the news announcing the passing of former Chief Charles Moose,” said Chief Marcus Jones.

“He was a great leader and led our department through the DC Sniper investigation, one of the most crime sprees in our country’s history. We send condolences to his wife Sandy and all of his family and friends.”

Moose died “while watching football and sitting in his recliner,” Sandy Moose, Charles wife, said in a Facebook post.

“He called my name, and I came running but it was too late. His body was shutting down,” his wife wrote.

“It seems so trite to give first notice this way. Right now, I can’t think much beyond I need a plan to celebrate this man: my best friend since 1982. He meant so much to so many, I’m at a loss … Godspeed Charles.”

Beltway Shootings

Chief Moose led the DC Sniper investigation, where shootings wreaked havoc in the DMV area in 2002.

In October 2002, John Muhammad and Lee Boyd Malvo went on a killing spree, randomly targeting people going about their daily lives.

Muhammad and Malvo killed 10 people and injured three more in sniper-style attacks.

Chief Moose served Montgomery County from 1999 through 2003.

It’s not clear when Moose left the force, but he retired to Tampa Bay, Florida according to WJLA.