Lieutenant David Joe Kraxner

Lieutenant David Joe Kraxner

Independence Police Department, Missouri

End of Watch Monday, October 31, 1966

Add to My Heroes

David Joe Kraxner

Lieutenant David Kraxner was shot and killed while conducting a felony traffic stop on an escaped convict who shot a prison guard while being transported for trial. The suspect then murdered a citizen and stole his car.

Lieutenant Kraxner located the vehicle and began a felony traffic stop at the intersection of U.S. 40 and Crysler Avenue but was immediately met with gunfire. Both he and the suspect were wounded in the shootout. The suspect was able to walk to Lieutenant Kraxner's vehicle, gained control of his service weapon, and then shot him execution style.

The suspect was apprehended later in the morning and pleaded guilty in order to avoid the death penalty. He was subsequently sentenced to life plus 39 years in prison. Lieutenant Kraxner's killer was denied parole in January 2012.

Lieutenant Kraxner is survived by his wife and children. He is buried in Pleasant View Cemetery, Shawnee, Kansas.

Bio

  • Age 34
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Sentenced to life

Most Recent Reflection

View all 29 Reflections

Lt. Kraxner, You are not forgotten by the men and women of Massachusetts Law Enforcement. RIP

Mike Kane
Retired Detective, Boston Police Dept.

August 12, 2023

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.