Detective Charles R. Harris

Detective Charles R. Harris | San Diego Police Department, California
San Diego Police Department, California
Detective Charles R. Harris

San Diego Police Department, California

End of Watch Sunday, April 3, 1927

Add to My Heroes

Charles R. Harris

Detective Charles Harris was killed when he and his partner were ambushed by a hidden gunman behind the Roosevelt School in Balboa Park.

He and a female detective, along with a second set of detectives, were posing as couples while staking out the area due to recent robberies. They were parked in a car when a subject approached, shined a light inside, and immediately opened fire. Detective Harris returned fire as the suspect ran away but did not hit him. He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The murder of Detective Harris was never solved.

Detective Harris had served with the San Diego Police Department for 17 years. He was survived by his wife and a 10-year-old niece.

Bio

  • Age 51
  • Tour 17 years
  • Badge 22

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Never apprehended

plainclothes, robbery, stakeout

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 6 Reflections

Charlie was my Great Uncle. His sister Keziah Ellen Harris Drake was my great grandmother. I had heard the story of his moving to California and his being shot many years ago. He was originally from MO. He has many relatives in TX where his dad & sister are buried. So thankful there is online documentation of his service & sacrifice.

Kelly Drake
Family, nephew

November 19, 2024

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.

Recent LODD Deaths