Police Officer Danny Lee Watson

Police Officer Danny Lee Watson

Detroit Police Department, Michigan

End of Watch Thursday, January 14, 1971

Add to My Heroes

Danny Lee Watson

Officer Watson and Officer William Wortmann were shot and killed when they approached a man and a woman for reasons that are unknown.

The man remained at the scene after being approached by the officers while the woman ran to his brother's home for help. The man said he and his brother shot at the two officers, who were in plain clothes, because he thought they were going to rob him. He said he had just left a store he managed at 6524 W. Fort Ave. around 11:30 p.m. with a large amount of money.

Officer Watson died at the scene and Officer Wortmann died from his wounds the following day.

Both brothers were freed after an investigation showed no evidence of criminal intent, and that both officers failed to identify themselves as police officers.

Officer Watson had served with the agency for three years and was survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

  • Age 29
  • Tour 3 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Arrested and released

plainclothes

Most Recent Reflection

View all 10 Reflections

Officer Watson,
On today, the 50th anniversary of of your death I would just like to say thank you to you and your Partner who was also killed in that incident for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Detroit. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

January 14, 2021

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.