Police Officer Patrick Stapleton
St. Louis Police Department
Missouri
End of Watch: Friday, May 26, 1922

Biographical Info
Age: 42
Tour of Duty: 18 years
Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Friday, May 26, 1922
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Acquitted

Officer Stapleton was shot and killed when he and his partner responded to a prowler call on Papin Street. As the officers searched the residence Officer Stapleton looked outside and observed man crouching between two sheds. He fired a shot at the man who then ran away. As the officers chased him they fired again, at which time the man returned fire, striking Officer Stapleton in the chest. The man was apprehended but claimed he didn't know he was firing at officers and acquitted of the charges.

Officer Stapleton had been with the agency for 18 years and was survived by his wife and 14-year-old daughter. His wife was appointed as a female detective after his death.