New York City Police Department
New York
End of Watch: Friday, May 21, 1971
Cause: Gunfire
Biographical Info
Age: 28
Tour of Duty: 5 years
Badge Number: Not available Patrolmen Joseph Piagentini and Waverly Jones were shot and killed in the 32nd Precinct when they were ambushed by members of the Black Liberation Army.
As the two patrolmen were returning to their cruiser at approximately 2200 hours, three suspects snuck up behind them and opened fire. Patrolman Jones was struck in the back of the head and killed instantly. Patrolman Piagentini was shot 13 times and succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital.
The three suspects were arrested and sentenced to 25 years to life. One of the suspects died in prison. The others were denied parole in 2002 and 2004.
Patrolman Piagentini had been employed with the New York City Police Department for five years, and is survived by his wife and two daughters.
The Black Liberation Army was a violent, radical group that attempted to fight for independence from the United States government in the late 1960's and early 1970's. The BLA was responsible for the murders of more than 10 police officers around the country. They were also responsible for violent attacks around the country that left many police officers wounded. | 
