Patrolman Joseph J. Westlake

Patrolman Joseph J. Westlake

Narragansett Police Department, Rhode Island

End of Watch Friday, August 22, 1902

Add to My Heroes

Joseph J. Westlake

Patrolman Joseph Westlake was shot and killed after he and his partner responded to the sounds of shots being fired.

He and his partner were walking a beat along the old Narragansett Pier where casinos were located at the time. There was a fight in a nearby bar between two local men and two U.S. Army soldiers, during which, a soldier pulled his gun and fired at one of the men but didn't hit him.

Patrolman Westlake and his partner were alerted to the shots and ran to investigate. The soldier with the gun ran off with the officers in pursuit. During the chase, the soldier fired at the two officers, killing Patrolman Westlake and wounding his partner. The soldier was later apprehended and charged with murder.

The soldier, who claimed he thought the officers were two tramps he earlier had trouble with, was tried and acquitted.

Patrolman Westlake was survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

  • Age 31
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

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

shots fired call

Most Recent Reflection

View all 10 Reflections

Patrolman Westlake,
On today, the 110th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Narragansett. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

August 22, 2022

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.