United States Department of Transportation - Federal Aviation Administration Police, U.S. Government
End of Watch: Saturday, January 12, 1974
Age: 43
Tour of Duty: 1 year, 6 months
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Heart attack
Date of Incident: January 12, 1974
Weapon Used: Person
Suspect Info: Charged with disorderly conduct
Private William Connor suffered a fatal heart attack following a foot pursuit and apprehension of three disorderly subjects at the main terminal building of National Airport in Arlington, Virginia. The three men had been ordered to leave the building but refused.
As Private Connor approached them a second time, the three fled to the traffic circle in front of the building. Private Connor caught them and took all three of them into custody. All three were charged with disorderly conduct.
When other officers arrived at the scene they observed Officer Connor leaning against a vehicle. He then collapsed moments later. He was transported to Alexandria General Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Private Connor was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army of WWII and recipient of the Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medal. He had served with the Federal Aviation Administration Police for six months and had previously served with the Federal Protective Service for one year. He was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. He is survived by his wife, two sons, two daughters, five grandchildren, and six siblings.