Carteret Police Department, New Jersey
End of Watch Thursday, December 7, 1944
Add to My HeroesRobert Shanley
Deputy Chief of Police Robert Shanley and Patrolman Walter Rusinak were shot and killed while responding to a domestic call at 22 Mercer Street.
The subject was upset over custody of his daughter and attempted to kill his estranged wife. She managed to escape while her father tried to take the rifle away. During the scuffle, the father was shot and killed. When officers arrived, the subject fired through the front window, wounding a sergeant, who was one of his friends, wounding a patrolman, and killing a 13-year-old neighbor who was playing outside. Trying to surprise the shooter, Patrolman Rusinak entered through the back door but was shot in the head and died instantly. The subject escaped through the back, using his daughter as a shield. While brandishing his firearm, he fired at Deputy Chief Shanley, who was shot through the heart.
Officers chased him throughout the town, and after a few blocks, he left his daughter on the street and was able to allude the police. He turned himself in a few hours later. The suspect was convicted of first-degree murder, sentenced to death, and executed on March 26, 1945.
Deputy Chief Shanley had served with the Carteret Police Department for 18 years. He was survived by his wife and two children.
Bio
- Age 43
- Tour 18 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Executed in 1945
Most Recent Reflection
View all 5 ReflectionsDeputy Chief Shanley,
On today, the 80th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Carteret. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)
December 7, 2024
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