Memphis Police Department, Tennessee
End of Watch Wednesday, April 24, 1867
Add to My HeroesJohn M. Claridge
Patrolman Claridge succumbed to a gunshot wound sustained the previous day while responding to a large disturbance at a saloon near the intersection of Washington Avenue and Main Street.
He and his partner heard a disturbance from inside a saloon that was well known to officers for having trouble while walking their beat. Patrolman Claridge and his partner found a large number of intoxicated men fighting inside when they arrived. Several of the men attacked Patrolman Claridge and his partner, beating them severely. One of the men fired a shot, striking Patrolman Claridge in the head. All the men fled the scene after the shot was fired. Patrolman Claridge was brought to a doctor, but died several hours later.
Patrolman Claridge was a U.S Army veteran of the Civil war and had served with the Memphis Police Department for just 10 months.
Bio
- Age 27
- Tour 10 months
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Incident Date Tuesday, April 23, 1867
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Not available
Most Recent Reflection
View all 2 ReflectionsYour heroism and service is honored today as we approach the 142nd 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 who was murdered in the the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer. He was shot twice when ambushed on April 23rd when he was on a foot pursuit of two bank robbers, 142 years after you were killed.
Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.
Rest In Peace.
Phyllis Loya
Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater
March 28, 2009
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