Patrolman William R. Burns

Patrolman William R. Burns | Radcliff Police Department, Kentucky
Radcliff Police Department, Kentucky
Patrolman William R. Burns

Radcliff Police Department, Kentucky

End of Watch Friday, July 5, 1985

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William R. Burns

Patrolman William Burns was overcome by gas fumes while attempting to rescue a sewer department employee who was trapped in an underground lift station at the Hardin Mall.

Patrolman Burns and two other workers were overcome while attempting to rescue the man. Methane gas leaked into the pump station due to a broken valve. The water district was fined for ignoring safety standards; the air in the underground station was not tested for toxic gases, there was no ventilation, and no emergency breathing equipment was available.

Patrolman Burns had served with the Radcliff Police Department for ten years. He was survived by his wife.

Bio

  • Age 35
  • Tour 10 years
  • Badge 913

Incident Details

  • Cause Exposure to toxins

mechanical failure, rescue

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On July 5, 1985, I was only 15 years old…..yet, I can still vividly recall that tragic day, and the unforgettable expression of shock and grief in my father’s eyes…..tears streaming down his face. I had never seen my father so devastated.
Gruber and Burns were best buds.
They enjoyed fishing together…..and they bonded over endless cups of coffee at the kitchen table, often discussing how to rid the “SCUM” from Hardin County.
Sometimes they would spend an afternoon cleaning and polishing their vehicles, or their weapons.
I remember there was never a shortage of jokes being told, and even if the punchline wasn’t funny…..they both still laughed.
Thank you “Mr. Bill” for being my Daddy’s friend…..and thank you for your ultimate sacrifice.

Jackie Gruber Dindar
Daughter of Lt. Detective Jack Gruber, Radcliff Ky Police Department
Wife of Detective Kagan Dindar, Clarksville Tn Police Dept., EOW October 24, 2014

Jackie Gruber Dindar
Always Family

August 26, 2024

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