Officer Harold Francis MacGilvray, Jr.

Officer Harold Francis MacGilvray, Jr.

Metropolitan Police Department, Massachusetts

End of Watch Thursday, October 11, 2018

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Harold Francis MacGilvray, Jr.

Officer Harold MacGilvary succumbed to complications of injuries sustained on November 13th, 1978, when he was struck by a vehicle while making a traffic stop.

He and his partner had stopped a vehicle for speeding on the Southeast Expressway near Neponset Circle in Dorchester. Officer MacGilvary was standing at the driver's window when he was struck by a car that drifted onto the shoulder. Officer MacGilvary was thrown 100 feet and suffered life-threatening injuries. He was transported to a local hospital where he underwent 13 hours of surgery before his condition stabilized.

The driver who struck him fled the scene but was arrested several days later and charged with driving while intoxicated, operating to endanger, driving on a suspended license, and leaving the scene of an accident.

Officer MacGilvary was a United States Army Vietnam War veteran who had served with the Metropolitan Department for 20 years and had previously served with the Medford Police Department for four years. He is survived by his wife, daughter, three sons, and ten grandchildren. Two of his sons also served with the Metropolitan Police Department.

The corner of Marion Street and Main Street in Medford, Massachusetts, was named "Patrolman Harold F. MacGilvray, Jr. Square."

Bio

  • Age Not available
  • Tour 24 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicular assault
  • Incident Date Monday, November 13, 1978
  • Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
  • Offender Charged

drunk driver, hit and run, traffic stop

Most Recent Reflection

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Officer MacGilvray, it has been 5 years since you were taken from us. New England law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices you, your family, and many others have made for us. Thank you for your military and law enforcement service.

Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH

October 12, 2023

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