Dallas Police Department, Texas
End of Watch Friday, June 17, 1892
Add to My HeroesWilliam H. Riddell
Officer William Riddell was shot and killed while he and his partner attempted to serve a warrant on a man for carrying a weapon.
The subject had been overheard saying that he would kill any officer who attempted to arrest him. As the officers entered his store he immediately opened fire, killing Officer Riddell. His partner was able to return fire but did not strike the suspect.
The assistant police chief arrived at the scene minutes later and was able to arrest the man. He was convicted of murder and sentenced to hang, but that sentence was later commuted to life in prison. After serving 15 years he was pardoned.
Officer Riddell had served with the Dallas Police Department for three years. He was survived by his wife and seven children. His son, Thomas Anderson Riddell, became an officer for the Dallas Police Department in 1899 and served until his retirement in 1932 as a Sergeant. One of William Riddell's grandchildren, Harry Taylor Riddell, continued the family tradition and became an officer for the Dallas Police Department in 1923. He served until his retirement in 1955 as a Captain.
Bio
- Age 55
- Tour 3 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Pardoned
Most Recent Reflection
View all 11 ReflectionsI just realized that when I watched the CBS news today that my father got interviewed for the PD he works for, that I was related to Officer Riddle. I believe if I remember I am his greatx6 (maybe)-granddaughter, like how cool is that?!
Lena Koiner
His very distant blood-related granddaughter
September 9, 2024
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