Patrolman Joseph L. O'Neil

Patrolman Joseph L. O'Neil | Buffalo Police Department, New York
Buffalo Police Department, New York
Patrolman Joseph L. O'Neil

Buffalo Police Department, New York

End of Watch Wednesday, October 7, 1970

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Joseph L. O'Neil

Patrolman Joseph O'Neil was shot and killed while transporting a prisoner to Meyer Memorial Hospital.

The subject had walked into the Precinct 3 station house earlier in the day and was charged under the state's mental hygiene law to be admitted to a hospital.

As Patrolman O'Neil and two other officers approached the emergency room door the man grabbed one of the officers' service revolvers from its holster and began running. He then turned and opened fire, fatally wounding Patrolman O'Neil. One of the other officers returned fire and killed the subject.

Patrolman O'Neil had served with the Buffalo Police Department for 26 years and was assigned to Precinct 3.

Bio

  • Age 56
  • Tour 26 years
  • Badge 999

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Not available
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Thank you for your service and know that your sacrifice will never be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

October 7, 2020

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