Chicago Police Department, Illinois
End of Watch: Monday, December 23, 1974
Age: 36
Tour of Duty: 6 years
Badge Number: 10054
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: December 23, 1974
Weapon Used: Handgun; .22 caliber
Suspect Info: Apprehended
Police Officer Harl Meister, was shot to death in a robbery attempt in the parking lot of a discount store at 5601 South Cicero Avenue.
He and his 8-year-old son were attempting to leave after a last-minute Christmas shopping trip when four youths attempted to rob him. His son was shot in the jaw and shoulder during the attack and was taken to a hospital in critical condition
Officer Meister was able to draw his revolver and fire before he was killed. One 16-year-old suspect was apprehended one block from the shooting scene, and another 16-year-old suspect was taken into custody three hours later. The other two, ages 17 and 18, were apprehended a few hours later.
Officer Meister was transported to Holy Cross Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His son recovered fully from his wounds.
One year later the 16-year-old who killed Officer Meister was convicted of murder and sentenced to 20 to 50 years. Two others were sentenced to 14 to 20 years and three to nine years. The fourth suspect received a very light sentence for attempted armed robbery.
Officer Meister had served with the Chicago Police Department for 6-1/2 years and was assigned to the Marquette District. He was awarded several honorable mentions during his career and also spent six months assigned to the department’s Special Operations Group. He is survived by his wife, son, and two daughters.