Patrolman Edward J. O'Leary, New York City Police Department, New York

Patrolman Edward J. O'Leary

New York City Police Department, New York

End of Watch Friday, July 26, 1957

Edward J. O'Leary

Patrolman Edward O'Leary was killed when a prisoner grabbed the steering wheel of his patrol car, intentionally causing it to crash.

He was working a plainclothes assignment and had arrested the woman for prostitution. He was transporting her to the police station when she grabbed the steering wheel at the intersection of Central Park West and West 105th Street. The woman yanked the steering wheel, causing the patrol car to strike an oncoming bus head-on. Patrolman O'Leary suffered severe head injuries and was transported to Knickerbocker Hospital where he died two days later. Six passengers on the bus suffered minor injuries.

The woman fled the scene in a taxi cab but turned herself in. She was charged with prostitution, escaping custody, and murder.

Patrolman O'Leary had served with the New York City Police Department for 11 years and was assigned to the 7th Division. He was survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

Age 37
Tour 11 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Vehicular assault
Incident Date Wednesday, July 24, 1957
Weapon Automobile
Offender Charged with murder

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Most Recent Reflection

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Our family is very grateful for the Officer Down Memorial Site and we wish to thank Chris Cosgriff, ODMP Founder and all those who have posted not only on our father's page but the pages of all his brothers and sisters lost in the line of duty. It is heartwarming to know that these heroes will never be forgotten. Our father died over 59 years ago and there is never a day that goes by that we do not feel his loss. Thank you.

Patricia Skrocki
Daughter of P.O. Edward J. O'Leary

November 25, 2016