Officer Gail A. Cobb

Officer Gail A. Cobb | Metropolitan Police Department, District of Columbia
Metropolitan Police Department, District of Columbia
Officer Gail A. Cobb

Metropolitan Police Department, District of Columbia

End of Watch Friday, September 20, 1974

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Gail A. Cobb

Officer Gail Cobb was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a bank robbery suspect at 20th Street and L Street, NW.

While walking her beat, she was tipped off that a suspected bank robber had just fled into a nearby underground parking garage. Officer Cobb located the man and instructed him to place his hands on the wall. As she radioed for assistance, the suspect spun around and fired a single shot at point-blank range. The bullet went through her wrist and her police radio and then penetrated her heart. She died at the scene.

The suspect was arrested at the scene by responding officers.

Officer Cobb had served with the Metropolitan Police Department for one year and was the first female Metropolitan Police Department officer to be killed in the line of duty.

She is survived by her child and is buried in Lincoln Memorial Cemetery, Suitland, Prince George's County, Maryland.

Bio

  • Age 24
  • Tour 1 year
  • Badge 321

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Apprehended

arrest attempt, bank robbery

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I joined the police department in 1988. And several years later I met your parents looking for your photo at the Second District police station. Unfortunately, it was not there at that time. I was saddened to learn of your loss and the sacrifice you made in 1974. I started researching not only your sacrifice, but several other fallen officers of that district. I regret I was not aware of the numerous lines of duty deaths before my research and tenure on the department. So, I'd like to thank the family members of every officer who made the ultimate sacrifice doing what they loved. They are appreciated and I pray God continues to give you comfort with each passing year.

Retired MPDC Senior Police Officer

January 2, 2023

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