Patrolman Edward J. Kavanagh

Patrolman Edward J. Kavanagh

New York City Police Department, New York

End of Watch Thursday, November 14, 1907

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Edward J. Kavanagh

Patrolman Kavanagh was shot and killed attempting to arrest a robbery suspect.

At approximately 2000 hours the suspect grabbed the handbag of a woman in front of 194 Duffield Street, Brooklyn. He fled with a citizen in pursuit. The citizen tackled the suspect on Gold Street, near Willoughby Street. During the struggle, the suspect drew a revolver and fired. The shot missed, but it drew the attention of Patrolman Kavanagh who was nearby.

Patrolman Kavanagh ran to the location and grabbed the suspect, but the suspect fired again, striking Patrolman Kavanagh. The suspect fled. A citizen took Patrolman Kavanagh's revolver and pursued the suspect. He fired five shots and eventually cornered the suspect, where he and several other citizens took him into custody.

Patrolman Kavanagh was taken to Brooklyn Hospital where he died from his wounds. The suspect was convicted of Patrolman Kavanagh's murder and executed at Sing Sing Prison on January 3, 1910.

Patrolman Kavanagh served with the New York City Police Department for two years and was assigned to the 47th Precinct, which is the present day 76th Precinct.

Bio

  • Age 30
  • Tour 2 years
  • Badge 2424

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; Revolver
  • Offender Executed in 1910

Most Recent Reflection

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I said a little prayer today for Patrolman Kavanagh and his family. He may be gone but never forgotten. He will always be a New York HERO.

Robyn Wilkes

November 10, 2015

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