Detective James P. Gearen, Norfolk and Western Railroad Police Department, Railroad Police

Detective James P. Gearen

Norfolk and Western Railroad Police Department, Railroad Police

End of Watch Monday, April 1, 1912

James P. Gearen

Detective James Gearen was shot and killed while attempting to eject two tramps from a freight train in Columbus, Ohio.

Detective Gearen had recently been assigned to the area due to trespassing and theft issues. The train slowed as it approached the Franklin County Infirmary, where he dropped from the engine in order to eject the two men from a boxcar. As he attempted to arrest the two men one of them pulled out a handgun and fatally shot him.

Both men fled the scene but were arrested a short time later by members of the Columbus Police Department.

Detective Gearen had served with the Norfolk and Western Railroad Police Department for 20 years. He was survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 52
Tour 20 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Location Ohio
Weapon Handgun
Offender Arrested

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Most Recent Reflection

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We cannot fully honor our heroes of the present without paying tribute to our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 105th anniversary year of your death. 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 Officer Larry Lasater, eow 4/24/05

May 11, 2017