New York Police Department, New York
End of Watch Wednesday, August 12, 1896
Add to My HeroesMichael E. Keating
Roundsman Michael Keating died of heat exhaustion during the 1896 Eastern North America Heat Wave while on mounted patrol.
Roundsman Keating had reported for duty at 8:00 am and failed to return after his shift ended. A search was made for him after his saddle and horse were returned to the station house in the evening. His body was found the next day by a mushroom forager in Delafield Woods approximately 1,000 yards from Riverdale Avenue. A coroner's physician ruled the cause of death as sunstroke after an autopsy.
It was believed that Roundsman Keating had gone deep into the woods for shade to tie down his horse after feeling the effects of the heat. His horse managed to break away from its fastenings in the evening.
Roundsman Keating served with the New York Police Department for 16 years and was assigned to the Kingsbridge Station.
The 1896 Eastern North America Heat Wave was a 10-day heatwave that stretched from Chicago to New York and New England. There were 10 days and nights of temperatures above 90 °F (32 °C) with 90 percent humidity and little breeze. Approximately 1,500 people died as a direct result of the heatwave in August 1896.
Bio
- Age 45
- Tour 16 years, 5 months
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Heatstroke
Most Recent Reflection
View all 2 ReflectionsRoundsman Keating, what a horrible tragedy that your life ended as it did. I have no doubt that the rules of the day were a contributing factor. Because of harsh, unnecessary rule, the Boston Police went on Strike in 1919 and I thank GOD they did.
You and all those of our Brothers who died due to Heatstroke quite possibly could have lived had you all been allowed to remove your coats, get into some cool areas or simply relaxed someplace. I can't swear to this, but it's my gut feeling, knowing the history of policing.
Brother, thank you for your service and God Bless you. May you forever be an example of what can happen due to excessive heat and may this tragedy bring about (as I'm sure it did) common sense.
Rest in Peace, Sir and thank you for your service.
Ptl. Jim Leahy, Jr.
Harvard University Police Department
June 3, 2022
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