Oakland Police Department, California
End of Watch: Thursday, April 12, 1917
Age:
Tour of Duty: 6 years
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Vehicular assault
Date of Incident: April 12, 1917
Weapon Used: Automobile; Alcohol involved
Suspect Info: Acquitted
Police Officer Alvin Gillem was struck and killed by a drunk driver on San Pablo Avenue at 16th Street.
He had taken a break to attend the circus with his family and was returning to duty when the driver lost control of his vehicle and ran over him as he stood on the sidewalk. The driver was charged with manslaughter but was acquitted on July 20th, 1917.
Officer Gillem had served with the Oakland Police Department for six years. He was survived by his wife and three children.