Waukesha County Sheriff's Department, Wisconsin
End of Watch Thursday, June 22, 1978
Add to My HeroesQuin Edward O'Brien
Sergeant O'Brien and Deputy Michael Geszvain were shot and killed when a prisoner gained control of Deputy Geszvain's service weapon. The officers were standing in court with the prisoner when the incident occurred. The suspect exchanged shots with another deputy on the first floor of the courthouse. Sergent O'Brien was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries the following day.
The suspect used an attorney as a shield to leave the courtroom. He was apprehended after taking a social worker hostage and forcing her to drive to Madison, Wisconsin. The man was sentenced to two counts of life in prison. He was up for parole in 2000, and it was denied for another 20 years.
Sergeant O'Brien was a Unites States Army and Marine veteran. He had served 24 years with the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Department. He is survived by his wife and seven children.
Bio
- Age 50
- Tour 24 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Incident Date Wednesday, June 21, 1978
- Weapon Officer's handgun
- Offender Sentenced to life
Related LODD Deaths
Deputy Sheriff Michael Geszvain
Waukesha County Sheriff's Department, WI
EOW: June 21, 1978
Most Recent Reflection
View all 28 ReflectionsI remember the day you passed dear uncle Quin. I was a young child and my Dad(your brother Jerry) got the call to come immediately. We were in Mammoth on vacation and I remember looking at my poor dad‘s face unsure exactly what was happening at the moment but I felt the weight of his grief. You died in the line of duty, a respected officer taken from your family too soon by a (nameless) man/prisoner who grabbed a gun and shot you senselessly. I remain very proud of you and your service as do my brothers and sisters. My Dad is now with you and uncle Pat in heaven laughing and playing pool.
Angel O'Brien
Niece
November 21, 2021
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