Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania
End of Watch Thursday, September 15, 1932
Add to My HeroesAugust E. Labenz
Police Officer August Labenz succumbed to a gunshot wound sustained one week earlier while attempting to stop a man who began shooting into a crowd of spectators at the intersection of 9th Street and Market Street.
The spectators were listening to a street preacher when the man opened fire without warning. Officer Labenz, who was patrolling nearby, was shot as he ran toward the subject. Two citizens were also shot.
A group of bystanders began chasing the subject, who then committed suicide.
Officer Labenz had served with the Philadelphia Police Department for three years. He was survived by his wife.
Bio
- Age 30
- Tour 3 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Incident Date Thursday, September 8, 1932
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender Committed suicide
Most Recent Reflection
View all 7 ReflectionsAlthough I never got to meet August, he was my grandfather’s brother. Since researching and finding this a few years ago, every time I am at this intersection in Philadelphia, I think about him. All of my grandfather, Joseph Labenz, brothers and sisters, my Aunts and Uncles, were the most caring people you could ever meet. It makes sense that Uncle August, like so many other police officers and first responders, would put his life on the line for others.
Carolyn Blyzniuk
Niece
May 9, 2023
