Wilson Police Department, North Carolina
End of Watch: Tuesday, August 9, 1927
Age: 27
Tour of Duty: 6 years
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: August 9, 1927
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Released after 15 years
Officer Joseph Ellis was shot and killed when he and another officer responded to a domestic disturbance. The suspect opened fire through the home's door when Officer Ellis entered the yard, fatally wounding him.
The suspect, who personally knew Officer Ellis, fled the scene but was later apprehended. He was convicted of murder, sentenced to prison, and released after 15 years.
Officer Ellis was a veteran of WWI and had served with the Wilson Police Department for 6 years. He was survived by his wife, parents, and 12 siblings.