Detective William H. Ballard

Detective William H. Ballard | Wichita Police Department, Kansas
Wichita Police Department, Kansas
Detective William H. Ballard

Wichita Police Department, Kansas

End of Watch Tuesday, July 20, 1920

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William H. Ballard

Detective William Ballard was shot and killed as he and two other officers searched two suspects in a small shack just west of First Street and Wichita Street.

They had searched the first man but apparently missed a .32 caliber handgun he was concealing. As they began to search the second subject the first subject opened fire, killing Detective Ballard and wounding one of the other officers. Both men fled from the shack but were apprehended. One later committed suicide in prison and the other attempted suicide.

Detective Ballard had served with the Wichita Police Department for five years and had previously served as a deputy marshal with the Wichita City Court for four years. He was survived by his wife, four sons, three daughters, and five siblings.

Bio

  • Age 52
  • Tour 9 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
  • Offender Committed suicide
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On this 100th anniversary of your untimely departure we say thank you for your service and please know that no passage of time will ever erase your sacrifice and heroism. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

July 20, 2020

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