Bio & Incident Details
Age: Not available
Tour: 6 years
Badge # 4470
Cause: Gunfire
Incident Date: 6/12/1932
Weapon: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect: Executed on January 10, 1934
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Patrolman Joseph Burke died of a gunshot wound he received while attempting to apprehend a robbery suspect.
Patrolman Burke and two other officers were informed that there was a robbery in progress inside of 2320 Seventh Avenue, Manhattan. Two officers entered through a connecting store and Patrolman Burke stood guard at the side door on 136th street. The two officers inside the store were able to apprehend two suspect, but a third ran out the side door. When he was confronted by Patrolman Burke, the suspect opened fire, striking Patrolman Burke in the head. The suspect and two look outs fled. The suspect that shot Patrolman Burke was apprehended a block away by other officers, but the two look outs escaped. They were arrested later in the day when the other suspect told officers where they could find the men.
Patrolman Burke was removed to Harlem Hospital where he died six days later from his wound.
The suspect was later convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to death. He was executed on January 10, 1934.
Patrolman Burke had been employed with the New York City Police Department for six years and was assigned to the 32nd Precinct.
