Patrolman James J. O'Brien, Chicago Police Department, Illinois

Patrolman James J. O'Brien

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Sunday, September 16, 1928

James J. O'Brien

Patrolman James J. O'Brien was shot to death at 1:45 A.M. at the southwest corner of 63rd and Halsted Streets by an auto thief who was also wounded by O'Brien's partner. Although wounded, he escaped but was captured the same day in a doctor's office in Oak Lawn where he went for medical aid.

On September 17th, 1928, he was held by the coroner to the grand jury, which indicted him for murder. The suspect was convicted of Patrolman O'Brien's murder and sentenced to 30 years in prison on January 25th, 1929.

Patrolman O'Brien had served with the Chicago Police Department for six years and was assigned to the 15th District. He was survived by his wife and five children.

Bio

Age 40
Tour 6 years
Badge 1544

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Friday, September 14, 1928
Weapon Handgun; Revolver
Offender Sentenced to 30 years

Most Recent Reflection

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My husband, your namesake, James Joseph O'Brien also was a patrolman, Blue Island, Il then onto Special Agent BNSF RR Cicero, IL, Centralia, IL, Memphis, TN now retired Olive Branch, MS
Jim's dad, Joseph & his siblings grew up without a father and Jim didn't get to meet his namesake but was always proud that he had a grandfather that worked to protect & serve. I think it especially wonderful that Jim grew up & had that same desire to be in Law Enforcement.
We always visit his grandfather's grave when we go up north. RIP PATROLEMAN JAMES JOSEPH O'BRIEN

Special Agent BNSF RR ( Retired)
James Joseph O'Brien Grandson

February 23, 2016