Patrolman Maitland H. Mercer

Patrolman Maitland H. Mercer

New York City Police Department, New York

End of Watch Saturday, July 31, 1965

Add to My Heroes

Maitland H. Mercer

Patrolman Maitland Mercer was shot and killed while attempting to make an arrest while off duty.

Patrolman Mercer had entered a bar in his old neighborhood, and the bartender informed him another patron was claiming to be an FBI agent. Patrolman Mercer waited for another off-duty Patrolman, whom he was meeting at the bar, to arrive before taking action. When the other Patrolman arrived, Patrolman Mercer led the suspect to a storage alcove in the bar to question him. When Patrolman Mercer turned away for a moment, the suspect drew a .22-caliber pistol from his waistband and fired at Patrolman Mercer, striking him in the back. Patrolman Mercer fell to the ground, and the suspect fired again, hitting Patrolman Mercer in the chest.

When the suspect attempted to flee from the bar, he was shot twice by the other off-duty Patrolman who was in the bar. The suspect fled into the street, with the Patrolman in pursuit. The Patrolman fired four more times, killing the suspect.

Patrolman Mercer was removed to Maimonides Hospital where he died about an hour later from his wounds.

Patrolman Mercer was posthumously awarded the New York City Police Department's Medal of Honor for his heroic actions.

Patrolman Mercer had served with the New York City Police Department for 13 years, assigned to the 76th Precinct. He was survived by his wife, son, and three daughters.

Bio

  • Age 44
  • Tour 13 years
  • Badge 15815

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; .22 caliber
  • Offender Shot and killed

arrest attempt, off duty

Most Recent Reflection

View all 21 Reflections

Uncle Maitland, long gone but never forgotten. You were my hero then, and you are still my hero, today. I will never forget the call from my Mom letting me know you passed. I was crushed. Rest in Peace.

Robert Owen Mercer
Nephew

July 31, 2023

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.