Spokane Police Department, Washington
End of Watch: Saturday, January 7, 1911
Age: 48
Tour of Duty: 21 years
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: January 5, 1911
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Never identified
Captain John Sullivan was assassinated as he sat in his home on W Sinto Avenue and N Adams Street.
The assassin shot through the living room window while Captain Sullivan sat in his living room. The bullet passed through the chair, striking him in the chest. He was transported to Sacred Heart Hospital, where he succumbed to his wound.
It is believed that he was shot as a result of all of the work he did to end prostitution and gambling houses in the city. No suspects were ever identified.
Captain Sullivan had served with the Spokane Police Department for 21 years and had previously served as the Chief of Police. He was survived by his wife, daughter, and son.