Visitation, Service for New York State Trooper Shot By Soldier

FORT DRUM, NY — New York State Police announce that service arrangements for Trooper Joel R. Davis have been set for Friday, and Saturday. Davis died responding to a domestic dispute in Theresa, NY. Army Staff Sgt. Justin Walters is in custody, accused of shooting Davis and his own wife, Nichole V. Walters.

Davis, 36, was shot as he approached the home at about 8 p.m., said George P. Beach II, superintendent of the New York state police. (For more Across New York news, click here to sign up for real-time news alerts. If you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app.)

Davis had radioed that there were shots being fired before getting out of his vehicle and walking towards the driveway. Within minutes, another trooper arrived at the scene. He heard gunfire, returned to his vehicle and saw Walters standing in the driveway. He left the car, drawing his service weapon, and then saw Davis lying in a ditch on the side of the roadway.

Nichole Walters was found dead in the driveway with multiple gunshot wounds. A third victim, Rebecca A. Finkle, was shot in her upper torso. Her injuries are non-life threatening, police said.

Walters, 32, was stationed at Fort Drum, home of the 10th Mountain Division. Fort Drum officials said Walters, of Zeeland, Michigan, was a combat veteran who has served at the post since joining the Army in 2007. He did one-year tours in Afghanistan with the 10th Mountain Division's 1st Brigade in January 2009 and again in March 2011.

Flags on all state government buildings are being flown at half-staff through the interment.

"The entire New York family grieves for Trooper Joel Davis, who was shot and killed in the line of duty Sunday night in Theresa, Jefferson County," Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. "Trooper Davis served as a member of the New York State Police for four years, and his death is yet another sad reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face each day in order to protect our communities and serve the residents of this great state. I ask all New Yorkers to keep Trooper Davis' family, loved ones and colleagues in the state police in their prayers during this incredibly difficult time."

Trooper Davis lived in Oneida County and is survived by his wife and three children.

Calling Hours:

Friday, July 14, 2017. Law Enforcement Only 3– 4PM; Public 4 – 8PM. Magrath Sports Complex, 10050 Tigris River Valley Road, Fort Drum, NY 13602.

Funeral Service:

Saturday, July 15, 2017. 1PM, Magrath Sports Complex, 10050 Tigris River Valley Road, Fort Drum, NY 13602

PHOTO/ NYSP