Arizona State Prison Complex – Lewis
End of Watch: January 1, 2006

Thirty years ago, on the first morning of a new year, the Arizona corrections community lost a dedicated officer, a firefighter, a teammate, and a beloved young man whose life was filled with purpose and promise. Today, three decades later, we honor the memory of Correctional Officer Vincent Robert Cannon, a 26-year-old public servant whose bravery, compassion, and selflessness continue to be remembered by those who knew him best.

A New Year’s Celebration Turned Tragic

On January 1, 2006, Correctional Officer Vincent Cannon was attending a New Year’s Eve party in rural Buckeye, surrounded by friends and members of his tight-knit community. What began as a night of celebration quickly turned into chaos and violence.

According to investigators, a man later identified as Jeremiah Sturmer, 26, became involved in a heated discussion about tattoos inside the home. The argument escalated into a physical fight, during which Sturmer stabbed three people. He then fled outside—where Officer Cannon encountered him.

Witnesses later stated that when people rushed out of the house, warning that others had been stabbed, Officer Cannon reacted instantly. His instinct, shaped by both his correctional background and his service as a volunteer firefighter, was to protect others. He positioned himself to prevent the assailant from re-entering the home and harming anyone else.

It was in that moment—putting himself between danger and innocent people—that Officer Cannon was stabbed. He was rushed to St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix, where he passed away shortly after arriving.

The three other victims survived their injuries. Sturmer was later apprehended by Arizona Department of Public Safety officers and charged with first-degree murder and multiple counts of aggravated assault.

A Life of Service

In his 26 years, Vincent Cannon built a legacy defined by commitment, teamwork, and compassion.

Arizona Department of Corrections

At ASPC-Lewis, Officer Cannon served at the Morey Unit and with the Tactical Support Unit (TSU). Known for his enthusiasm and dedication, he was admired across the facility for his reliability, professionalism, and positive spirit.

He was also the TSU’s team medic, bringing both skill and heart to the role. Colleagues described him as someone who would step forward without hesitation—someone who made difficult days manageable and dangerous situations safer.

Buckeye Valley Volunteer Fire Department

For two years, Officer Cannon served as a volunteer firefighter, answering calls, assisting neighbors, and strengthening the community that had raised him. This dual commitment—corrections and firefighting—reflected Vincent’s character: always ready to serve, always ready to help.

Lt. Danny Valenzuela, both a friend and supervisor, said it best:

“He loved DOC so much. He was very active in TSU… He was our team medic. Thank you for giving us Vince. Now we all have a guardian angel.”

A Community in Mourning

The days following his death revealed the enormous reach of his impact. Hundreds attended his services on January 8, 2006, including representatives from:

• Arizona Department of Corrections

• Arizona Department of Juvenile Corrections

• Buckeye Valley Volunteer Firefighters

• Arizona Border Patrol

• Buckeye Police Department

• Multiple law enforcement and emergency response agencies across the state

A solemn procession led the way, with a Buckeye Valley Fire Engine—shrouded in black—carrying his casket. Honor Guard units from various agencies stood shoulder to shoulder in his memory.

The ceremony included:

• A 21-gun salute

• A helicopter flyover in missing-man formation

• A final radio call honoring Officer Cannon

It was a farewell worthy of a hero—because Vincent was one.

“We remember and we celebrate our co-worker, Vincent Robert Cannon, an exceptional correctional professional.”
—ADC Director Dora Schriro

A Hero Who Saved Others

Though he was off duty when he died, Officer Cannon acted with the courage and selflessness that defined his life. Investigators later stated that his actions prevented additional injuries or deaths that night. Even in a moment of danger and confusion, he thought first of others.

That is who he was.

Forever Loved, Never Forgotten

Officer Cannon is survived by his mother, fiancée, sister, and brother.

Their grief, carried for 30 years, is matched only by the pride they hold in the man Vincent was—and the hero he remains.

On this 30-year anniversary, the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation stands with his family, his friends, his TSU team, and the entire ASPC-Lewis community in remembering his sacrifice.

Correctional Officer Vincent Robert Cannon
End of Watch: January 1, 2006
A hero in life. A guardian angel in memory.