Police Officer William McNamara

Police Officer William McNamara

Stamford Police Department, Connecticut

End of Watch Tuesday, December 18, 1973

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William McNamara

Police Officer William McNamara was accidentally shot and killed by his partner during a shootout with a robbery suspect.

The two officers had responded to a robbery call at a liquor store on Washington Boulevard. They located the man in a nearby hotel lobby holding the liquor store clerk at gunpoint. When the suspect saw Officer McNamara's partner, the man started to point his gun at the officer but was shot.

Officer McNamara, who was trying to get a better position on the suspect, came out of a nearby room just as the shooting took place. The partner, who saw Officer McNamara's gun, then opened, turned, and shot Officer McNamara, thinking he was another suspect. Officer McNamara was taken to Stamford Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds. The shooting was ruled accidental.

Officer McNamara was a U.S. Navy veteran and had been with the Stamford Police Department for four years. He was survived by his wife, daughter, son, mother, and four siblings.

Bio

  • Age 31
  • Tour 4 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)

mistaken identity, robbery

Most Recent Reflection

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Officer McNamara , it has been 50 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 law enforcement service.

Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH

December 18, 2023

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