Patrolman Robert B. McPherson
San Diego Police Department
California
End of Watch: Thursday, September 19, 1929

Biographical Info
Age: 39
Tour of Duty: 4 years
Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Assault
Date of Incident: Tuesday, September 17, 1929
Weapon Used: Blunt object
Suspect Info: Sentenced to life

Patrolman McPherson was killed after being assaulted while on jail duty. He was attempting to break up a fight between two inmates. As he entered the cell one of the inmates grabbed Patrolman McPherson's nightstick and began beating him over the head with it. Other officers were able to subdue the prisoner. Patrolman McPherson was transported to a local hospital with serious head injuries. The next day he left the hospital without permission but was later found walking around dazed and confused. He was returned to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries the next day.

Patrolman McPherson had been with the agency for four years and was survived by his wife and 12-year-old son.