Detective Russell Blanchard
Detroit Police Department
Michigan
End of Watch: Saturday, March 15, 1952

Biographical Info
Age: 50
Tour of Duty: 22 years
Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Saturday, March 15, 1952
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: killed

Detective Blanchard was shot and killed while responding to a robbery call at a local store. Three suspects had forced the store employees into the manager's office. As Detective Blanchard and his partner entered the store one of the suspects opened fire, striking Detective Blanchard. As the three suspects fled, the one who shot Detective Blanchard was subdued by another officer arriving on the scene with a flying tackle. The suspect died later at the hospital. The medical examiner said the suspect died from abdominal shock resulting from the tackle.

Detective Blanchard was transported to Highland Park General Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Detective Blanchard had served with the Detroit Police Department for 22 years. He was survived by his wife.