Patrolman Frank Bruno, Jr.

Frank Bruno, Jr.

Patrolman Frank Bruno was shot and killed while investigating a burglary in progress at 639 East McLemore Street. Patrolman Bruno and his partner were informed by a citizen of a possible burglary at the address. While Patrolman Bruno's partner questioned the complainant, he entered the store. Two shots were fired as he entered, one of which struck and killed Patrolman Bruno. Patrolman Bruno's partner fired several shots at the suspects as they fled, but none hit their mark.

A tip led to the arrest of all three suspects on September 25, 1962. Two were convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to death. Their sentences were later commuted to 150 years. The third suspect was sentenced to 99 years. In 1982 the suspect who fired the fatal shot was pardoned by Governor Lamar Alexander. But because of public outrage Governor Alexander withdrew the pardon 24 hours later.

Patrolman Bruno had served with the agency for five years. He was survived by a wife and two children.