City Marshal John C. Coomer, Burnside Police Department, Kentucky

City Marshal John C. Coomer

Burnside Police Department, Kentucky

End of Watch Wednesday, October 1, 1913

John C. Coomer

Marshal John Coomer succumbed to a gunshot wound sustained six weeks earlier when he was shot in the back of the neck after arresting a drunk man at the railroad station.

The man, a friend of Marshal Coomer, had arrived on a train drunk and was taken by the marshal to the city jail to sober up. As they walked into the jail, the suspect produced a small caliber handgun and shot the marshal.

The suspect fled the scene and was pursued by a posse. As he attempted to cross the river, he exchanged shots with the posse, killing one of the members. He was able to escape but was eventually apprehended. He was convicted of killing the posse member and sentenced to five years, but was not charged with murdering Marshal Coomer as the result of a request the marshal made on his deathbed.

Marshal Coomer had served as city marshal for 18 years. He was survived by his wife and eight children.

Bio

Age 52
Tour 18 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Monday, August 18, 1913
Weapon Handgun
Offender Sentenced to 5 years

Most Recent Reflection

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To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 100th anniversary year of your death. I am priviliged to be among the first to leave a tribute to you. 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 line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

April 25, 2013