Cleveland Division of Police, Ohio
End of Watch Monday, October 18, 1920
Add to My HeroesWalter J. Pruehs
Patrolman Walter Pruehs was shot and killed while questioning three suspicious men he encountered at West 25th Street and Henritze Avenue while walking to work. During the questioning he instructed the men to walk with him to a police call box so that he could call for backups. As they walked the men suddenly produced revolvers, turned around, and one of them opened fire, striking Patrolman Pruehs in the abdomen. Patrolman Pruehs was able to return fire but did not strike the suspects. Patrolman Pruehs was able to make it to the call box and call for help. He was taken to a local hospital where he succumbed to his wounds that evening.
It was discovered that the three suspects were also wanted in connection with the burglary of Ott Cut-Rate Pharmacy at 3661 Fulton Road, where burglars carried away a three-hundred-pound safe containing six hundred dollars in cash and 100 postage stamps.
Patrolman Pruehs had been with the agency for five years and was survived by his wife and two children.
Bio
- Age 26
- Tour 5 years
- Badge 709
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun; Revolver
- Offender Not available
Most Recent Reflection
View all 12 ReflectionsPatrolman Pruehs,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Cleveland.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
October 18, 2020
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