St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, Missouri
End of Watch Wednesday, March 16, 1949
Add to My HeroesWilliam J. O'Brien
Detective William O'Brien was shot and killed while making a routine check on a pawnshop at 1401 Franklin Avenue. As he entered the shop he interrupted a robbery which was taking place and was shot in the chest. The two suspects then shot and wounded the owners before fleeing with stolen property.
Both suspects, age 23, were later apprehended, convicted of murder, and sentenced to life in prison. Both were later convicted of three armed robberies and each were sentenced to three life terms to run concurrently with their first life sentence.
Detective O'Brien was assigned to the Tracing Bureau and had been with the agency for 31 years. He was survived by his wife and daughters.
Bio
- Age 68
- Tour 31 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 7 ReflectionsYour heroism and service is honored today, the 63rd anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.
Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.
Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05
March 16, 2012
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