Police Officer Daniel Thomas Gleason, Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

Police Officer Daniel Thomas Gleason

Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Thursday, June 5, 1986

Daniel Thomas Gleason

Officer Daniel Gleason was shot and when he and his partner responded to investigate reports of vandalism to a vehicle on West Sedgley Avenue, near North Broad Street.

When the officers arrived they approached two people who were standing nearby to ask if they knew anything about the vehicle. The male subject immediately drew a handgun and opened fire, striking Officer Gleason three times in the face and three times in the arm and side. Officer Gleason was transported to Temple University Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Upon investigation, it was learned that the suspect had a hatred for white police officers and in the past had vowed to kill any that ever stopped him. He was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life on November 29, 1986.

Officer Gleason was survived by his wife and six children. His wife was killed three years later in a car accident.

Bio

Age 38
Tour 15 years, 6 months
Badge 6320

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
Offender Sentenced to life

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Most Recent Reflection

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I never knew Danny but I remember this incident well. No one could have lived in Philadelphia and not remembered it, or the visual of that grieving family. This year, on 9-11, we will open our school with a tribute to all those who put their lives on the line each and every day to keep us all safe. We will "light our town" in support of these heroes. We will give tribute to them, and share the story of this officer, who fell way too soon. Thank you for continuing to keep this story alive so our youth can continue to learn from it.

Elaine McDowell, Principal
Holy Trinity School, Morrisville, PA

August 28, 2015