Chief of Police John T. Moyer

Chief of Police John T. Moyer

Baxter Springs Police Department, Kansas

End of Watch Friday, April 21, 1939

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John T. Moyer

Chief John Moyer succumbed to a gunshot wound sustained three days earlier as he attempted to evict a man for creating a disturbance in a local boarding establishment.

The owner of the rooming house had attempted to kick the man out but when the man refused, the owner called Chief Moyer. Chief Moyer arrived at the rooming house at which time he, the owner, and the man went to the suspect's room where the suspect opened fire on them with a .45 caliber handgun, mortally wounding both the chief and the owner. Chief Moyer was taken to a hospital in Joplin, Missouri, where he died 7 days later.

The 50-year-old suspect was arrested and charged with two counts of first degree murder. It was discovered that he had escaped from the Kansas Asylum four months earlier. The murder charges were dismissed and he was returned to the asylum.

Bio

  • Age 65
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Friday, April 14, 1939
  • Weapon Handgun; .45 caliber
  • Offender Committed

Most Recent Reflection

View all 11 Reflections

Chief Moyer,
On today, the 80th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Baxter Springs. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol
El Paso Station

April 21, 2019

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