Columbus Division of Police, Ohio
End of Watch Monday, August 28, 1972
Add to My HeroesJoseph Andrew Edwards
Patrolman Joseph Edwards was shot and killed when he was ambushed while responding to a call for help.
Patrolman Edwards and his partner Charles McFadden were responding to a domestic violence call. When they arrived at the given address, on Franklin Park south east of Nelson Road, they realized it was a fake call. As the patrolmen were driving through the area, the suspect walked around the patrol car to the driver's side and shot Patrolman Edwards with a 12 gauge shotgun, causing Patrolman Edwards to lose control of the vehicle.
The suspect was apprehended in Beaumont, Texas, January 9, 1973. He was found guilty of first degree murder and sentenced to life. On August 9, 1978, he was released from prison when evidence surfaced that showed the investigation was mishandled. The State of Ohio decided not to retry him.
Patrolman Edwards had been with the Columbus Division of Police for two years. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Bio
- Age 29
- Tour 2 years
- Badge 552
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Shotgun; 12 gauge
- Offender Released in 1978
Most Recent Reflection
View all 17 ReflectionsNEVER FORGET! On behalf of the Ohio Attorneys General Bureau of Criminal Identification & Investigation, we honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Patrolman Joseph Andrew Edwards of the Columbus Division of Police, Ohio and the additional 80 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.
Superintendent Joe Morbitzer
Ohio Attorney General, Bureau of Criminal Investigation
August 28, 2023
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