Detective James L. Wells
Seattle Police Department
Washington
End of Watch: Sunday, November 28, 1897

Biographical Info
Age: 38
Tour of Duty: 7 years
Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Sunday, November 28, 1897
Weapon Used: Handgun
Suspect Info: Shot and arrested

Detective Wells was shot and killed by a suspect he was transporting in a horse-drawn wagon to police headquarters. When they arrived at headquarters the suspect produced a handgun and shot Detective Wells. Detective Wells was able to return fire, striking the suspect. The suspect was captured a short time later.

Detective Wells had served with the Seattle Police Department for 5 years and had previously served with the King County Sheriff's Department for 2 years.