Boston Police Department, Massachusetts
End of Watch Saturday, September 21, 1918
Add to My HeroesPeter Francis Neary
Patrolman Peter Neary died as a result of complications after contracting Spanish Influenza while in the performance of his duties a week earlier. His duties were to respond to medical assistance calls and help the coroner.
The first case of Spanish Influenza was reported in Boston on August 28, 1918, resulting in more than 4,000 deaths by the end of 1918. Boston Police Officers performed many tasks to help stop the spreadof the flu while working an average of 73-98 hours weekly.
Patrolman Neary was assigned to District 5. He was survived by his wife and two children.
Effects of Spanish Flu on Law Enforcement
From 1918 to early 1919, the Spanish Flu pandemic infected an estimated 500 million people worldwide—about one-third of the planet’s population—and killed approximately 675,000 Americans. Many officers contracted this virus due to the requirements of their job.
The names of every officer who died in the line of duty from the Spanish Flu will likely never be known, but ODMP researchers continue to uncover new cases as part of our mission to never forget the fallen.
Bio
- Age 33
- Tour Not available
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Duty related illness
- Incident Date Saturday, September 14, 1918
Most Recent Reflection
View all 6 ReflectionsPatrolman Neary, it has been 106 years since you were taken from us. New England law enforcement continues to serve and protect and make life secure for our part of the country. I honor your years of law enforcement service to the citizens of Boston.
Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH
September 21, 2024
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