Memphis Police Department, Tennessee
End of Watch: Friday, March 13, 1868
Age: 27
Tour of Duty: 1 year, 8 months
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: March 7, 1868
Weapon Used: Handgun; Pistol
Suspect Info: Not available
Patrolman John Gear was shot and wounded when he and his partner attempted to stop three men acting suspiciously near the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and 4th Street.
The three men were carrying bundles and acting in a suspicious manner when Patrolman Gear ordered the men to halt all three stopped and turned around. Two of the men opened fire at him and his partner. Patrolman Gear was struck in the leg causing his leg bone to shatter between the knee and ankle.
His partner returned fire but was unable to apprehend the suspects. Patrolman Gear was taken to his home and a doctor was called. A few hours later Patrolman Gear's leg was amputated. Six days later Patrolman Gear died due to complication from his leg wound.
Patrolman Gear had served with the Memphis Police Department for 21 months.