Chief of Police Daniel J. Hayes

Chief of Police Daniel J. Hayes

Ansonia Police Department, Connecticut

End of Watch Monday, December 27, 1880

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Daniel J. Hayes

Chief of Police Daniel Hayes was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a suspect.

He had been summoned by the suspect's father who had asked Chief Hayes to arrest the man for discharging a pistol in a saloon. Chief Hayes located the man near the Railroad Hotel in the downtown area. As he attempted to arrest the man a struggle ensued and Chief Hayes was shot in the stomach.

Chief Hayes succumbed to his injuries four days later. The suspect was found guilty of his murder and executed in 1882.

Chief Hayes became the first police chief of Ansonia when the police department was created earlier that year. He was survived by his wife and three children. He was a Union Civil War Veteran having served as a private with the 3rd Connecticut Light Artillery Battery from September, 1864, until the end of the war in 1865.

Bio

  • Age 34
  • Tour 1 year
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Thursday, December 23, 1880
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Executed

arrest, weapons violation

Most Recent Reflection

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Chief Hayes, it has been 143 years since you were taken from us. New England law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices you, your family, and many others have made for us. Thank you for your military and 1 year of law enforcement service.

Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH

December 27, 2023

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