Chief of Police Charles Brendon Cavanaugh, Bernardsville Police Department, New Jersey

Chief of Police Charles Brendon Cavanaugh

Bernardsville Police Department, New Jersey

End of Watch Tuesday, September 8, 1931

Charles Brendon Cavanaugh

Chief of Police Charles Cavanaugh was shot and killed from ambush.

Chief Cavanaugh was investigating the scene of a fire when an intoxicated man who was angry that the Chief had issued his wife a summons for a motor vehicle violation, suddenly opened fire with a handgun. Chief Cavanaugh was shot several times and succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.

The killer was tried for the murder and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Chief Cavanaugh was 29 years old at the time of his death. He was survived by his wife and child.

Bio

Age 29
Tour 5 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Sentenced to 20 Years

Most Recent Reflection

View all 10 Reflections

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 82nd 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

May 1, 2013