Reserve Constable Crooks was on mobile patrol on 22 April at 10:40pm in Coalisland when his car was ambushed by terrorist gunmen. They opened fire on his car as it approached Dernagh Crossroads. A total of 14 shots were fired with 7 hitting the patrol car. Reserve Constable Crooks was seriously wounded and was taken to hospital. He died at 2.50am on 23 April from his wounds. The other two police officers in the car were also wounded.

Roll of Honour Citation

Ambushed and fatally wounded by terrorist gunmen whilst on mobile patrol.