Patrolman Joseph F. Ferguson

Patrolman Joseph F. Ferguson

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Friday, December 27, 1968

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Joseph F. Ferguson

Patrolman Joseph F. Ferguson was shot and killed while questioning three suspicious men in front of 3834 Indiana Avenue.

He and his partner stopped three men because they saw a bulge under the coat one of the men was wearing. One of the subjects convinced them that he was not with the remaining two suspects and was allowed to leave. A gun was found during a search of the others, and they were placed under arrest.

During the arrest, the first man returned to the scene with a handgun he obtained at a nearby barbershop. The patrolmen were ordered to drop their weapons and to enter their patrol car with the offenders. Patrolman Ferguson's partner drew his backup weapon, and a gun battle ensued. Patrolman Ferguson was struck four times and killed. His partner suffered minor shrapnel wounds.

All three suspects were arrested. The killer was convicted of murder and sentenced to 100 to 199 years. Another subject was convicted of murder and sentenced to 75 to 100 years. The third man, who agreed to turn state's evidence, was found beaten to death one month later.

Patrolman Ferguson had served with the Chicago Police Department for three years. He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.

In 2022, the intersection of 32nd Place and Paulina Street was renamed Honorary Joseph P. Paul Ferguson Way.

Bio

  • Age 26
  • Tour 3 years, 6 months
  • Badge 6892

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Sentenced to 199 years

arrest attempt, suspicious person

Most Recent Reflection

View all 28 Reflections

As I sit in the Watch Commanders office in the 2nd District and read the horrific accounts of Officer Ferguson's murder, I pray for his beloved family, his wife Tanya, daughter Elizabeth and Son Joseph. No words could reflex the sorrow you have suffered for 54 years without your hero, our hero. Today we will be hold a memorial roll call in his honor at 38th in Indiana because we can never forget his sacrifice. God rest his soul and please accept our deepest condolences.
An American Hero Joseph Francis Ferguson end of watch 27DEC1968 - RIP

Lt. S. Huffman
Chicago Police

December 27, 2022

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