Detective Charles R. Harris, San Diego Police Department, California

Detective Charles R. Harris

San Diego Police Department, California

End of Watch Sunday, April 3, 1927

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Charles R. Harris

Detective Charles Harris was killed when he and his partner were ambushed by a hidden gunman behind the Roosevelt School in Balboa Park.

He and a female detective, along with a second set of detectives, were posing as couples while staking out the area due to recent robberies. They were parked in a car when a subject approached, shined a light inside, and immediately opened fire. Detective Harris returned fire as the suspect ran away, but did not hit him. He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The murder of Detective Harris was never solved.

Detective Harris had served with the San Diego Police Department for 17 years. He was survived by his wife and a 10-year-old niece.

Bio

Age 51
Tour 17 years
Badge 22

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Never apprehended

ambush, plainclothes, robbery, stakeout

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Most Recent Reflection

View all 6 Reflections

Charlie was my Great Uncle. His sister Keziah Ellen Harris Drake was my great grandmother. I had heard the story of his moving to California and his being shot many years ago. He was originally from MO. He has many relatives in TX where his dad & sister are buried. So thankful there is online documentation of his service & sacrifice.

Kelly Drake
Family, nephew

November 19, 2024