April 4, 2026, marks 45 years since the tragic loss of Warden Wallace M. Pack and Corrections Employee Billy M. Moore, who were killed in the line of duty at the Ellis Unit in Huntsville, Texas.

On that day in 1981, both men were performing their duties within the Texas Department of Corrections when a routine work assignment turned into a deadly confrontation. During an incident involving an inmate assigned to a prison work crew, the situation escalated, resulting in both Warden Pack and Officer Moore losing their lives.

Warden Pack, 55, was a respected leader within the department, known for his commitment to the operation and management of one of Texas’ largest prison facilities. Officer Billy Moore, 50, served as a farm manager and played an essential role in the daily operations that supported the institution. Together, they represented the leadership and workforce that keep correctional systems functioning—often under difficult and unpredictable conditions.

Their deaths marked a significant and somber moment in the history of Texas corrections. At the time, they were among the highest-ranking correctional officials in the state to be killed in the line of duty—an event that underscored the very real dangers faced by correctional professionals each day.

The aftermath of the incident brought national attention and became part of a broader conversation surrounding corrections during a period of change and scrutiny within the prison system. The events of that day remain a reminder of the complexities and challenges correctional staff face while maintaining safety, order, and accountability.

In the years since, their service has not been forgotten. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice honored their memory through the naming of correctional facilities, ensuring their legacy remains a visible part of the system they helped build and protect.

Beyond titles and recognition, Warden Pack and Officer Moore are remembered most for their dedication to their profession and the families and communities they served. Warden Pack is survived by his wife, mother, stepchildren, grandchildren, and extended family. Officer Moore is survived by his wife, children, father, and siblings—loved ones who carry forward their memory.

Forty-five years later, we pause to reflect not only on how they died, but on how they lived—as correctional professionals who committed themselves to a difficult and often unseen calling.

Their story is one that reminds us that behind every uniform is a person—a leader, a coworker, a family member—who shows up each day in service to something greater than themselves.

At the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation, we remain committed to honoring their legacy and all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

We remember Warden Wallace M. Pack and Officer Billy M. Moore.
We honor their service.
And we will never forget.