Police Officer Joseph T. Hackney

Police Officer Joseph T. Hackney

Uniontown Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Thursday, November 6, 1884

Add to My Heroes

Joseph T. Hackney

Police Officer Joseph Hackney succumbed to a gunshot wound sustained one week earlier as he and another officer walked a prisoner to jail after arresting him for disorderly conduct on Main Street.

As they walked the man to jail another man approached them and began yelling at the officers, then grabbed the other officer's arm. As Officer Hackney and the other officer pushed the man away a revolver fell from the man's coat and discharged. The round struck Officer Hackney in the leg and the bullet traveled into his groin.

He was taken to a nearby doctor's office and then to his home, where he remained until passing away one week later.

The subject who interfered in the arrest and whose revolver discharged was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to 10-1/2 years in prison.

Officer Hackney had served with the Uniontown Police Department for six months. He was survived by his wife, three young children, and several brothers.

Officer Hackney's Great-Grandson, Patrolman Robert C. Jay, died in the line of duty on November 26th, 1975, while serving with the Luzerne Township Police Department.

Bio

  • Age 46
  • Tour 6 months
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Monday, October 27, 1884
  • Weapon Handgun; Revolver
  • Offender Sentenced to 10 years

Most Recent Reflection

View all 5 Reflections

Rest in peace always knowing that your service and sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

September 5, 2020

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.