Chicago Police Department, Illinois
End of Watch Sunday, October 12, 1930
Add to My HeroesWilliam P. Rumbler
Policeman William Rumbler, of the East Chicago Avenue Station, was shot to death in a battle with three holdup men.
Rumbler was off duty, visiting a friend; the owner of a soft drink parlor at 3174 Milwaukee Avenue. A man entered the establishment and asked for an individual. The storeowner replied that no such person was there. At that time, two additional men entered and ordered Rumbler, the storeowner and two porters to put their hands up. Everyone complied until one of the gunman started to search Rumbler. The policeman suddenly drew his gun and opened fire. All three bandits returned fire, piercing his body with eleven bullets. Rumbler was taken to Belmont Hospital where he died a few minutes after his arrival.
Two of the suspects were convicted of Policeman Rumbler's murder and sentenced to 60 years each on May 22, 1931. One was paroled on February 26, 1955. His sentence was reduced for participating in malaria treatment experiments during World War II. He was arrested five years later for possession of burglary tools. The third suspect escaped, and three additional suspects were indicted, but discharged.
His wife survives policeman William Rumbler, a 19-year veteran of the department.
Bio
- Age 33
- Tour 19 years
- Badge 2358
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Arrested
Most Recent Reflection
View all 9 ReflectionsPatrolman Rumbler,
On today, the 90th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Chicago.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
October 12, 2020
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