Patrolman William Smith

Patrolman William Smith | Joplin Police Department, Missouri
Joplin Police Department, Missouri
Patrolman William Smith

Joplin Police Department, Missouri

End of Watch Monday, November 15, 1909

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William Smith

Patrolman William Smith was shot and killed by the husband of a prostitute he had just arrested.

Patrolman Smith and another patrolman raided a house of prostitution at 803 Main Street. As Patrolman Smith and his partner exited the house with the suspects, they were confronted by the suspect’s husband who shot both of them. Patrolman Smith died from his wounds.

The entire police department was trying to make Joplin as presentable as possible for the arrival of the famous evangelist Billy Sunday. The suspect was apprehended in 1913.

Patrolman Smith is buried at Fairview Cemetery in Joplin, Missouri.

Bio

  • Age 42
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Arrested

prisoner custody, prostitution

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Your heroism and service is honored today, the 101st anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Rest In Peace

Phyllis Loya
mom of fallen officer Larry Lasater

November 15, 2010

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