Chicago Police Department, Illinois
End of Watch Sunday, August 16, 1970
Add to My HeroesJames Alfano, Jr.
Patrolman James Alfano was shot and killed while investigating a report of a gang fight that was about to take place.
He was driving through an alley between 66th Place and 67th Street near Stony Island Avenue but was blocked by an obstruction in the roadway. As his vehicle was stopped, a sniper opened fire on him, fatally wounding him.
Seven suspects were later taken into custody and charged with Patrolman Alfano's murder, including the shooter. The seven suspects were members of the Black P. Stone Nation Gang, Chicago's largest and most dangerous gang with more than 100,000 members. The shooter was one of the three leaders of the gang. All seven were tried for murder and acquitted.
Patrolman Alfano was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who had served with the Chicago Police Department for nine years and was assigned to the Gang Investigation Section. He was survived by his wife and two children.
Bio
- Age 30
- Tour 9 years
- Badge 4707
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Incident Date Friday, August 14, 1970
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Acquitted
Most Recent Reflection
View all 85 ReflectionsI worked with Jim in CPD’s 005th District back in the late 1960’s. He has been in my mind and in my prayers from that fateful day those cowards took his life. I’ve had survivors guilt since that day. Jim and I both interviewed for the slot in the Gang Investigations Unit. Jim got the job because he was a much better Police Officer than I. He was one hell of a good copper. I read the reflections offered by his daughter and tears well in my eyes. I think of my own daughters and I wonder what the world would be without these 2 fabulous people. For some unknown reason God chose Jim not me. I’ll never know why but I thank the Good Lord every day for my good fortune. I hope to meet Jim some day in the great hereafter to thank him for his sacrifice. His heroism has allowed me 78 years of life. I don’t have enough words of gratitude to honor this man. I wish his family all the best as they continue to miss and honor their hero. May God Bless him and his family. Although I was not a Marine I will offer Jim a “Semper Fi” because of my ever faithful remembrance of his service to God and Country. Faithfully and Fraternally Retired Police Officer Tony Caruso CPD 1967-2001
PO Tony CARUSO (Retired)
Chicago Police Department
August 10, 2022
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