Police Officer Joseph E. Sage

Police Officer Joseph E. Sage

Butte Police Department, Montana

End of Watch Wednesday, April 8, 1925

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Joseph E. Sage

Officer Sage was shot and mortally wounded by one of three men who attacked him on East Murcury Street. The three, who probably did not know he was a police officer since he was in street clothes, grabbed him from behind; robbed him of his watch; grabbed his service revolver; and shot him through both legs. Before going to the hospital Officer Sage assisted other officers in arresting one of the suspects. Another one of the three was arrested a short time later.

Officer Sage was taken to a local hospital in Butte where doctors determined that his wounds were not that serious. But infection and other complications set in and he died as a result two weeks later.

On October 16, 1925, the murder charges were dismissed against the suspects. The judge ruled that the state had not shown sufficient evidence to warrant taking the case to court because it could not be determined which one of the three shot Officer Sage.

Officer Sage was survived by a sister and four brothers.

Bio

  • Age 55
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Tuesday, March 24, 1925
  • Weapon Officer's handgun
  • Offender Charges dismissed

Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Sage,
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 Butte.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border (Retired)

April 8, 2025

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