Patrolman Daniel Henry Bruns

Patrolman Daniel Henry Bruns

Dayton Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Tuesday, July 3, 1973

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Daniel Henry Bruns

Patrolman Daniel Bruns succumbed to his wounds when he was shot while attempting to break up a fight while off duty.

At 6:30 a.m., he was entering a bar that his friend owned at 522 Xenia Avenue at the same that his friend was attempting to throw out two men who were fighting. When Patrolman Bruns walked in, the friend identified him as a police officer and asked him to escort the men out. As he did so, one of the men pulled out a gun and shot him in the forehead.

Patrolman Bruns was transported to Miami Valley Hospital and succumbed to his wounds two days later.

The 19-year-old subject was arrested, convicted of second-degree murder, and sentenced to 15 years to life.

Patrolman Bruns had served with the Dayton Police Department for 23 years. He was survived by his wife, mother, two stepdaughters, a stepson, and three sisters.

Bio

  • Age 50
  • Tour 23 years
  • Badge 414

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Sunday, July 1, 1973
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Sentenced to life

off duty

Most Recent Reflection

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NEVER FORGET! Honoring the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Patrolman Daniel Henry Bruns of the Dayton Police Department, Ohio and the additional 86 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

July 3, 2024

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