Memphis Police Department, Tennessee
End of Watch: Saturday, March 19, 1910
Age:
Tour of Duty: Not available
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: March 19, 1910
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Apprehended
Patrol Driver John Ryan was shot and killed while he attempted to apprehend a wanted fugitive in an alley on S 4th Street between Calhoun Avenue and St. Paul Avenue.
Patrol Driver Ryan and two officers were on duty at a police substation when they were informed of the location of a wanted fugitive. The three officers responded to the location. When they arrived, they split up and attempted to draw the suspect out. When they did, a chase ensued and the suspect opened fire, killing Patrol Driver Ryan.
The suspect was wounded in the gun battle but escaped. He was arrested two days later when he went to a hospital to get medical attention for his gunshot wound. Five other men were also arrested and charged with assisting the fugitive.