Patrolman Gerald N. Bode

Patrolman Gerald N. Bode

Cleveland Division of Police, Ohio

End of Watch Saturday, December 18, 1937

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Gerald N. Bode

Patrolman Gerald Bode and Patrolman Virgil Bayne were shot and killed while questioning five suspicious men at a gas station on Buckeye Road.

As Patrolman Bayne questioned one of the men outside of the vehicle, the suspect produced a revolver and opened fire. At the same time, the four suspects inside the car began shooting at Patrolman Bode. Both officers were able to return fire but did not strike the suspects. The officers were both shot and taken to St. Luke's Hospital where they were pronounced dead.

All five suspects were apprehended. One was sentenced to death and electrocuted. The rest were all convicted and eventually paroled.

Patrolman Bode served with the Cleveland Division of Police for over three years. He was survived by his wife, father, and two brothers.

Bio

  • Age 32
  • Tour 3 years, 4 months
  • Badge 782

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; Revolver
  • Offender One executed

suspicious person

Most Recent Reflection

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NEVER FORGET! On behalf of the Ohio Attorneys General Bureau of Criminal Identification & Investigation, we honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Patrolman Gerald N. Bode of the Cleveland Division of Police, Ohio and the additional 80 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.

Superintendent Joe Morbitzer
Ohio Attorney General, Bureau of Criminal Investigation

December 18, 2022

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