Boston Police Department, Massachusetts
End of Watch Wednesday, September 1, 1976
Add to My HeroesWilliam R. Beckman
Police Officer William Beckman suffered a fatal heart attack shortly after being involved in a pursuit in the area of 362 Commonwealth Avenue.
He had responded to reports of vandalism in the area and became involved in a vehicle and then foot pursuit of the suspect on Boylston Street. He caught the subject before collapsing near the Prudential Center.
He was transferred to Boston City Hospital where he was unable to be revived.
The man he captured was convicted of assault and battery and sentenced to two years. He was also convicted of trying to commit larceny and intent to commit a misdemeanor and sentenced to concurrent sentences of two years and six months.
Officer Beckman was a United States Navy veteran and had served with the Boston Police Department for 21 years. He is survived by his wife and five children.
Bio
- Age 52
- Tour 21 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Heart attack
Most Recent Reflection
View all 17 ReflectionsNever forgotten on the Anniversary of your Passing. The Officers both Active and Retired take the time to pause and remember you, you will not be forgotten.
Retired Boston P.O. Robert E. Anthony Historian
September 1, 2024
Recent LODD Deaths

Lieutenant Allen "Noochie" Credeur
Rayne Police Department, LA
EOW: May 5, 2025

Special Deputy Sheriff Larry Henderson, Jr.
Hamilton County Sheriff's Office, OH
EOW: May 2, 2025

Deputy Sheriff Brandon Ray Sikes
Columbia County Sheriff's Office, GA
EOW: April 26, 2025

Deputy Sheriff Jesse Perez
Dawson County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: April 22, 2025

Captain Helio Armando Garcia, III
South Fulton Police Department, GA
EOW: April 16, 2025

Deputy Sheriff Melissa Pollard
Wood County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: April 9, 2025

Deputy Sheriff William May
Walton County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: April 2, 2025

Police Officer Osmar Rodarte
Marysville Police Department, CA
EOW: March 26, 2025

Sergeant Grant J. Candies
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, LA
EOW: March 23, 2025