Detective Patrick Gaffney, East Cleveland Police Department, Ohio

Detective Patrick Gaffney

East Cleveland Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Wednesday, December 25, 1918

Patrick Gaffney

Detective Patrick Gaffney was shot and killed in the area of Elm Street and Coit Road after responding to a report of two men trying to steal a car.

As Detective Gaffney and his partner arrived the suspects immediately opened fire. During the ensuing foot pursuit and shootout Detective Gaffney was struck in the lung, causing a fatal injury.

The suspect who shot Detective Gaffney was eventually apprehended and sentenced to life in prison on December 12, 1920. He died in prison on July 27, 1937.

Detective Gaffney had been with the agency for seven years and was survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 35
Tour 7 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Thursday, December 19, 1918
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Died in prison

Most Recent Reflection

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NEVER FORGET! On behalf of the Westerville, Ohio Division of Police, we honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Detective Patrick Gaffney of the East Cleveland Police Department, Ohio and the additional 94 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.

Chief Joe Morbitzer
Westerville, Ohio Division of Police

December 26, 2017