Bio & Incident Details
Age: 47
Tour: 17 years
Badge # Not available
Cause: Gunfire
Incident Date: 11/19/1912
Weapon: Officer's handgun
Suspect: Executed in 1913
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Patrolman Claus was shot and killed after breaking up a disturbance. Three men had tried to enter a wedding reception that was had already started. When they were turned away they began to vandalize a fence in front of a nearby residence.
Patrolman Claus, who was coincidentally across the street was immediately summoned. Patrolman Claus did instruct the three to “move along.” As the three walked in one direction
Patrolman Claus turned to go the opposite way. However, the three turned and ran after Patrolman Claus. Two of the suspects grabbed him around his waist while the third suspect wrestled Claus’ firearm from him. The third suspect put the revolver to Patrolman Claus’ face and fired. Patrolman Claus was killed instantly.
The suspect was apprehended and charged with the murder of Patrolman Claus. He was convicted of the murder and executed at Auburn Prison on June 4, 1913.
Patrolman Claus had served with the Buffalo Police Department for 17 years. He was survived by his wife and six children.
