Officer Michael J. McDonald

Officer Michael J. McDonald

San Francisco Police Department, California

End of Watch Saturday, August 26, 1933

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Michael J. McDonald

Officer Michael McDonald was shot and killed by a man holding another man hostage at the Crystal Palace Market at Eighth Street and Market Street in San Francisco.

A few days earlier, a wealthy retired banker, answering a knock at his door, suddenly found himself at the mercy of a man standing there with a gun. For the next few days, the suspect marched his victim from bank to bank, forcing him to withdraw funds. As they went into a market to get some food, the victim saw Officer McDonald coming toward them and shouted, "Get that man; he's got a gun," and then started running simultaneously. Officer McDonald drew his gun as the suspect drew his gun, and the suspect shot him three times. He was transported to the hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds the next morning.

The suspect ran from the market and engaged in a gun battle with two officers on Mission Street near 8th Street, where he was shot to death. An innocent bystander was also wounded in the volley of gunfire.

Officer McDonald was survived by his wife and six children.

He is buried at the Holy Cross Catholic Cemetary in Colma, California.

Bio

  • Age 48
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Friday, August 25, 1933
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Shot and killed

burglary, hostage

Most Recent Reflection

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Officer McDonald,
On today, the 90th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of San Francisco. And t your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

August 26, 2023

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