Boston Police Department, Massachusetts
End of Watch Monday, March 17, 1969
Francis B. Johnson
Patrolman Francis Johnson was shot and killed after responding to a disturbance at a local tavern.
He had been nearby directing traffic at Kneeland and Tremont Streets when a citizen alerted him to the disturbance. As he entered the bar he was momentarily unable to see as it was extremely bright outside and extremely dark inside. He was unaware that a man inside was waving a gun and as his eyes adjusted to the darkness the suspect shot him.
The suspect was apprehended and sentenced to life and has been denied parole on several occasions.
Patrolman Johnson had served with the Boston Police Department for 27 years. He was survived by his wife and six children.
Bio
- Age 51
- Tour 27 years
- Badge 2794
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 43 ReflectionsTonight I found myself on Tremont Street, waiting to cross the street. I looked up and happened to notice the sign with Officer Johnson's name and the date of March 17, 1969 on it. I was curious to see what I could learn about him, and I found this page. Sounds like a true hero. How fortunate we are to have men and women who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to keep the rest of us safe.
Anney
April 14, 2018
Recent LODD Deaths

Sergeant Noel Ramirez
Gilchrist County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: April 19, 2018

Deputy Sheriff Taylor Lindsey
Gilchrist County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: April 19, 2018

Police Officer Sean McNamee Gannon
Yarmouth Police Department, MA
EOW: April 12, 2018

Patrolman Kevin F. Crossley
Whitesboro Police Department, NY
EOW: April 11, 2018

Police Officer Keith O'Neal Earle
Huntsville Police Department, AL
EOW: April 9, 2018

Corporal Dale Shannon Hallman
Saluda County Sheriff's Office, SC
EOW: April 6, 2018

Police Officer Phillip Lynn Meacham
Hopkinsville Police Department, KY
EOW: March 29, 2018

Trooper First Class Kevin M. Miller
Connecticut State Police, CT
EOW: March 29, 2018

Special Agent Melissa S. Morrow
United States Department of Justice - Federal Bureau of Investigation, US
EOW: March 22, 2018