Bio & Incident Details
Age: 26
Tour: 3 years
Badge # 12717
Cause: Gunfire
Incident Date: 3/25/1926
Weapon: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect: Executed in 1927
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Patrolman Kenny succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained two weeks earlier when he was shot by a burglary suspect.
While on patrol, Patrolman Kenny and his partner were alerted that there was suspicious activity in a house on their post. Patrolman Kenny two other patrolman and a detective went to the house. Patrolman Kenny and his partner went to the back door of the location where they were met by the burglar. The suspect pretended to be a resident of the house. Patrolman Kenny's partner lowered his gun for a instant, allowing the suspect to draw a guna nd open fire, striking Patrolman Kenny's partner in the neck.
The suspect then fled on foot, with Patrolman Kenny in pursuit. After several blocks, the suspect ran into an alley. Patrolman Kenny followed, where he was met by a man who told him "I'm a policeman, he ran the other way". When Patrolman Kenny turned to look, he was shot in the chest by the suspect.
Patrolman Kenny died two weeks later from his wounds. His partner made a full recovery.
The suspect, who was known in the media as the "Radio Burglar" because he had committed over 30 burglaries in the area and stolen a radio from almost every home, was apprehended several days alter after a massive manhunt and investigation. The suspect was apprehended entering a New York Giants game at the Polo Grounds. As the arresting officers moved to make the arrest, the suspect attempted to draw a handgun, but was taken into custody after a violent struggle. He was later convicted of Officer Kenny's murder and executed on February 17, 1927.
Patrolman Kenny had served with the New York City Police Department for three years and was survived by his wife.
He was assigned to the 60th Precinct, the present day 110th Precinct.
