Polson Police Department, Montana
End of Watch Saturday, January 13, 1923
Add to My HeroesJohn Emory Hern
Chief of Police Jim Hern died from an accidental gunshot wound sustained the previous day.
He was conducting a meeting with a judge when he bent down to pick something up off of the judge's office floor. His .32 caliber pistol fell from his pocket and discharged when it hit the ground. The round struck him in the abdomen, causing serious internal injuries.
He was taken to his sister's home where he died at 3:00 am the following morning.
Chief Hern had served as the chief of police and township constable of Polson for approximately 13 years. He was survived by his wife, brother, and son.
Bio
- Age 67
- Tour 13 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)
- Incident Date Friday, January 12, 1923
Most Recent Reflection
View all 4 ReflectionsChief Hern,
On today, the 101st anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Polson.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)
January 13, 2024
Recent LODD Deaths

Detective Joseph Azcona
Newark Police Division, NJ
EOW: March 7, 2025

Police Officer Felicia Dee Reilly
Saint Paul Police Department, MN
EOW: March 1, 2025

Deputy Sergeant Martin Shields, Jr.
Hinds County Sheriff's Office, MS
EOW: February 23, 2025

Police Officer Christopher M. L. Reese
Virginia Beach Police Department, VA
EOW: February 22, 2025

Police Officer Cameron Robert Girvin
Virginia Beach Police Department, VA
EOW: February 22, 2025

Patrolman Andrew William Duarte
West York Borough Police Department, PA
EOW: February 22, 2025

Trooper Kyle McAcy
Nebraska State Patrol, NE
EOW: February 17, 2025

Police Officer Jeremy R. Labonte
Roswell Police Department, GA
EOW: February 7, 2025

Officer Jason Roscow
North Las Vegas Police Department, NV
EOW: February 4, 2025