Patrolman Dennis J. Whalen

Dennis J. Whalen

Patrolman Dennis Whalen was shot and killed while questioning two men in a pawn shop at 1519 East 18th Street.

The men had entered and attempted to pawn a watch but refused the amount offered. Patrolman Whalen, who was in the store, asked to see the watch. A struggle ensued and one of the men shot him.

He was taken to a local hospital where he died the following day.

Patrolman Whalen had served with the Kansas City Police Department for 34 years and had been reappointed as a patrolman after retiring as a captain. He was survived by his wife, two daughters, and three brothers.