Railroad Policeman John Louis Beisser, Pennsylvania Railroad Police Department, Railroad Police

Railroad Policeman John Louis Beisser

Pennsylvania Railroad Police Department, Railroad Police

End of Watch Friday, October 20, 1916

John Louis Beisser

Railroad Policeman John Beisser was shot and killed as he attempted to arrest two men for illegal train riding near West Fairview, Pennsylvania.

One of the men opened fire with a revolver, killing Policeman Beisser instantly, and critically wounding another railroad policeman with him. Railroad workers and West Fairview residents chased the suspects to the nearby shore of the Susquehanna River where they were apprehended.

The shooter was convicted of first degree murder and executed in the electric chair November 12th, 1917.

Policeman Beisser was a U.S. Army veteran of the Spanish American War. He was survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 36
Tour Not available
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Location Pennsylvania
Weapon Handgun; Revolver
Offender Executed in 1917

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Most Recent Reflection

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Along with others, I also take notice of Policeman Beisser's sacrifice of a day a century past. You are not forgotten, sir. We are grateful for your service to your nation, and to the Pennsylvania Railroad.

Stan Jefferson
citizen

October 20, 2016