Patrolman Michael J. Hahnel, Shaker Heights Police Department, Ohio

Patrolman Michael J. Hahnel

Shaker Heights Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Monday, October 20, 1924

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Michael J. Hahnel

Patrolman Michael Hahnel was shot and killed while transporting two men to jail.

He and another officer had stopped a car for speeding at Moreland Boulevard and Lee Road and placed the two men under arrest. Unbeknownst to the officers, the two men were driving a stolen car and had just robbed a gas station. Patrolman Hahnel was riding in the backseat of their car, which was being driven to the police station when one of the occupants suddenly turned and shot him. The two then threw his body into a field on Ashwood Road, near East 140th Street, and fled.

Patrolman Hahnel succumbed to his wounds four days later.

One of the suspects was executed for Patrolman Hahnel's murder on April 24, 1925. The other suspect was sentenced to life.

Patrolman Hahnel had served with the Shaker Heights Police Department for one year. He was survived by his father and seven siblings.

He is buried in St Mary's Cemetery, Cleveland, Ohio.

Bio

Age 28
Tour 1 year
Badge 7

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Friday, October 17, 1924
Weapon Handgun
Offender One executed; One sentenced to life

transport, arrest attempt

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Patrolman Hahnel,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Shaker Heights. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Reired)

October 20, 2024