Rugby Police Department, North Dakota
End of Watch Sunday, February 3, 1963
Add to My HeroesFrank Peterson
Patrolman Frank Peterson was shot and killed when he surprised two men burglarizing a business on Main Street early in the morning.
The suspects opened fire on Patrolman Peterson, wounding him. The suspects then used a total of seven guns to shoot Patrolman Peterson 16 times. Several of the shots came from the officer's service revolver. The two men were arrested in Minot several days later and charged with first degree murder.
Both suspects, ages 21 and 22, were convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life in prison on March 19, 1963. One was paroled in 1979 and the other shortly thereafter.
Patrolman Peterson was a part-time officer for the Rugby Police Department and had previously served as a deputy for the Pierce County Sheriff's Department.
He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.
Bio
- Age 56
- Tour Not available
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 7 ReflectionsI will forever be personally moved by your loss of life. Thank you for protecting the citizens of North Dakota.
It is a horrific case and my wish is that it would be an example of why life should always mean life.
To you’re family: although you’re killers were allowed out (& shamefully, one to adopt my brother and I), we did not stay in contact with him. He died alone.
I live my life in honor of officers and am grateful for his service. You will never be forgotten. I hope that knowledge brings you peace.
Traci
Women adopted by one of the shooters
November 26, 2020
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