Patrolman Leo R. Gorski

Patrolman Leo R. Gorski

Minneapolis Police Department, Minnesota

End of Watch Sunday, December 18, 1932

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Leo R. Gorski

Patrolmen Leo Gorski and Ira Evans were shot and killed when they responded to a bank robbery in progress at Central and East Hennepin Avenues.

As they exited their patrol car, two of the suspects opened fire on them with a shotgun and machine gun. Both officers were fatally wounded. The suspects escaped but were eventually apprehended.

One of the shooters was also responsible for the murder of Marshal John Rose of the Kirksville, Missouri, Police Department on November 17, 1930. The suspect was sentenced to life in prison.

In 1934 the suspect was believed to have gone insane and was transferred to a state hospital. Two years later, he led an escape of 15 inmates and continued to rob banks. On July 8, 1936, he shot and killed Officer Cal Palmer, of the Enid, Oklahoma, Police Department, after getting drunk in a local bar.

Patrolman Gorski was a United States World War I veteran and had served with the Minneapolis Police Department for 11 years. He was survived by his wife and son.

He is buried in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Bio

  • Age 38
  • Tour 11 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Friday, December 16, 1932
  • Weapon Rifle; Machine gun
  • Offender Sentenced to life

bank robbery

Most Recent Reflection

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Patrolman Gorski,
On today, the 90th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served during World War I.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

December 18, 2022

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