Patrolman Daniel T. O'Connell

Daniel T. O'Connell

Patrolman O'Connell was shot and killed with his own service weapon while struggling with a prisoner.

The suspect had been arrested earlier in the evening for assaulting a family member. A patrol wagon had been called to transport the man from the Chapel Street Station to the downtown station. Prior to leaving for downtown, the wagon driver picked up Patrolman O'Connell to assist him with the transport.

As Patrolman O'Connell rode in the back of the wagon, the suspect attacked him. The man was able to gain control of Patrolman O'Connell's service revolver and fatally shot him. The man was then taken into custody by another officer and an off duty fireman.

On January 27, 1939, the 27-year-old suspect was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life.

Patrolman O'Connell was survived by his wife.