Detective Lieutenant John McCarthy

Detective Lieutenant John McCarthy

Toledo Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Tuesday, January 7, 1947

Add to My Heroes

John McCarthy

Detective John McCarthy was shot and killed shortly after arresting two men and a woman for passing bad checks.

Detective McCarthy and two other detectives went to arrest two men and a woman who were in a bar two blocks from the police station and were wanted for passing bad checks. The officers searched the two men, but not the woman. When they all got in the police car and started the two-block drive, the woman gave each man a pistol. A gun battle ensued, killing Detective McCarthy and both male suspects. Both of the other officers were wounded but recovered.

The woman was unharmed and received a six-month sentence for passing bad checks.

Detective McCarthy had served with the Toledo Police Department for 23 years. He was survived by his wife, son, and two grandchildren.

Bio

  • Age 58
  • Tour 23 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Shot and killed

arrest

Most Recent Reflection

View all 16 Reflections

NEVER FORGET! Please join me and honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Detective Lieutenant John McCarthy of the Toledo Police Department, Ohio and the additional 80 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.

Superintendent Joe Morbitzer (Retired)
Ohio Attorney General, Bureau of Criminal Investigation

January 7, 2024

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.