Patrolman Walter H. McEwen
Memphis Police Department
Tennessee
End of Watch: Monday, December 30, 1929

Biographical Info
Age: 40
Tour of Duty: Not available
Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Monday, December 30, 1929
Weapon Used: Officer's handgun
Suspect Info: Never apprehended

Patrolman McEwen was shot and killed when he tried to arrest an armed suspect. At Approximately 1100 hours Patrolman McEwen was walking his beat on Calhoun Street when he observed a suspect armed with a gun. Patrolman McEwen approached the suspect and a foot pursuit began. Patrolman McEwen caught the suspect and a struggle ensued. The suspect broke loose and again fled on foot.

Patrolman McEwen drew his pistol and pursued the suspect again. When the suspect turned down a dead-end alley he attempted to climb a fence. Patrolman McEwen tried to pull the suspect down from the fence, striking the suspect several times with his drawn pistol. A struggle again ensued and the suspect was able to overpower Patrolman McEwen and gained control of his pistol. The suspect fired two shots, hitting Patrolman McEwen in the eye with one shot, killing him. The suspect then fled and was never identified or apprehended.

Patrolman McEwen was survived by his wife and five children.