Patrolman John M. Donnelly
Springfield Police Department
Ohio
End of Watch: Tuesday, July 14, 1931

Biographical Info
Age: 38
Tour of Duty: 6 years
Badge Number: 59

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Automobile accident
Date of Incident: Tuesday, July 14, 1931
Weapon Used: Not available
Suspect Info: Not available

Patrolman Donnelly was killed in an automobile accident, at the intersection of Limestone Street and Main Street, while riding on the running board of a commandeered vehicle.

Patrolman Donnelly was on traffic duty at a nearby intersection when he observed a vehicle that had been stolen earlier in the day. Unbeknownst to him, the vehicle had already been recovered and was being driven by the owner. As a result, he commandeered a utility company truck and followed the vehicle. The vehicle he was riding on was involved in a collision causing him to be thrown from the vehicle, and then struck by another vehicle. He was transported to City Hospital where he died a short time later.

Patrolman Donnelly had served with the agency for a total of 6 years, during two different appointments. He was survived by his wife and brother, who was also a member of the agency. He was buried in Calvary Cemetery.