Police Officer Charles Willard Masterson

Charles Willard Masterson

Officer Charles Masterson was struck and killed by a train at the railroad crossing on North Union Street.

He and three other men were riding on a horse drawn carriage, responding to a domestic disturbance call at the time of the accident. As they began crossing the railroad tracks, they observed a fast approaching train. Fearing the wagon would be struck by the train, Officer Masterson jumped off, but fell into the path of the train. He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries approximately one hour later.

Officer Masterson had served with the Decatur Police Department for two years.