Officer Mack Wesley Cantrell

Officer Mack Wesley Cantrell

District of Columbia Protective Services Police Department, District of Columbia

End of Watch Monday, July 4, 1977

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Mack Wesley Cantrell

Officer Mack Cantrell succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained on March 9th, 1977, when a Muslim terrorist group took over the District Building and two other nearby buildings.

During the attack, the terrorists murdered a local journalist and shot a member of the District of Columbia councilman. Officer Cantrell was struck in the head with buckshot during the incident before the terrorists took dozens of hostages. The hostages were eventually freed following extended negotiations involving the ambassadors of Pakistan, Iran, and Egypt.

All the hostage-takers were taken into custody and subsequently convicted of numerous crimes. The leader of the group was sentenced to 21 to 120 years in prison. He died at Federal Correctional Institute Butner on November 13th, 2003.

Officer Cantrell recovered enough from his wounds to return to duty on June 19th, 1977 but suffered a fatal heart attack on his first day back. He was taken to a local hospital where he passed away on July 4th, 1977.

Officer Cantrell was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the District of Columbia Protective Services Police Department for six years. He was survived by his wife, four daughters, and one granddaughter.

Bio

  • Age 51
  • Tour 6 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Wednesday, March 9, 1977
  • Weapon Shotgun
  • Offender Sentenced to 120 years

barricade, terrorism

Most Recent Reflection

View all 11 Reflections

Another anniversary of your heroic service and death where we say thank you, and reiterate that your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten by your law enforcement family. God Bless you and your family, and to your granddaughter Christine, always take solace knowing your grandfather died a true hero.

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

July 4, 2024

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