Senior Special Agent John Francis Capano

Senior Special Agent John Francis Capano

United States Department of Justice - Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Government

End of Watch Saturday, December 31, 2011

Add to My Heroes

John Francis Capano

Special Agent John Capano was shot and killed while struggling with a robbery suspect outside a pharmacy on Merrick Road in Seaford, Nassau County, New York.

Agent Capano was off duty and inside the pharmacy at 2:00 pm when the suspect entered and robbed it of OxyContin and cash. As the suspect exited the store Agent Capano drew his service weapon and attempted to stop him. He shot the armed man once and then began to struggle with him as they exited the store.

A retired Nassau County police officer and an off-duty New York City police officer who were in a deli next door were also alerted. Both came out of the deli and discovered the men struggling over Agent Capano's weapon, which discharged a second time. Mistakenly believing that Agent Capano was an armed suspect, the retired officer opened fire on him, fatally wounding him.

The suspect was then shot and killed by the off duty New York City officer after he picked up the gun and stood up. It was later determined that the suspect was carrying a pellet gun.

Agent Capano had served with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for 23 years. He is survived by his wife, two children, father, and five siblings.

Bio

  • Age 51
  • Tour 23 years
  • Badge 2820

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)
  • Location New York

Most Recent Reflection

View all 247 Reflections

SSA Capano,
On today, the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

December 31, 2021

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.