Louisville Police Department, Kentucky
End of Watch Wednesday, October 4, 1950
Add to My HeroesJohn Arthur Lawson
Patrolman John Lawson suffered a fatal heart attack two hours struggling with a prisoner inside the police headquarters facility in the basement of the city hall.
The prisoner had been arrested for being drunk in public and disorderly a short time earlier at a tavern at 306 E. Market Street when he interfered as Patrolman Lawson attempted to question a woman. As Patrolman Lawson booked the man, a struggle ensued in which Patrolman Lawson was struck in the chest.
He complained about chest pain and was taken to a local hospital where he died two hours later. The man was charged with assault, drunk in public, and disorderly conduct. The suspect pled guilty to assault and battery, fined $90, and sentenced to 30 days.
Patrolman Lawson had served with the Louisville Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife, son, daughter, parents, and sister.
Bio
- Age 41
- Tour 5 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Heart attack
- Weapon Person
- Offender Charged with assault
Most Recent Reflection
View all 2 ReflectionsPatrolman Lawson,
On today, the 74th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Louisville. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)
October 4, 2024
Recent LODD Deaths

Officer Jeremy Labonte
Roswell Police Department, GA
EOW: February 7, 2025

Officer Jason Roscow
North Las Vegas Police Department, NV
EOW: February 4, 2025

Police Officer Philip J. Schifini
Nassau County Police Department, NY
EOW: November 27, 2024

Major Jeffrey A. Burke
New Jersey State Police, NJ
EOW: December 31, 2024

Corporal Dennis Francis Kelly
Delaware State Police, DE
EOW: December 21, 2024

Officer Baldino Morales-Sánchez
Mayagüez Municipal Police Department, PR
EOW: January 25, 2025

Border Patrol Agent David Christopher Maland
United States Department of Homeland Security - Customs and Border Protection - United States Border Patrol, US
EOW: January 20, 2025

Sergeant Mark Butler
Navasota Police Department, TX
EOW: January 15, 2025

Deputy Sheriff Jesus Vargas
Brazoria County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: January 15, 2025