Detective Lyons Kelliher

Detective Lyons Kelliher

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Wednesday, January 25, 1956

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Lyons Kelliher

Detective Lyons Kelliher was shot and killed by a 17-year-old AWOL soldier in a night club at 2801 W. Warren Avenue.

He and his partner were making a routine investigation to check reports that the club was a hangout for narcotics addicts. As they were questioning the suspect he drew out a pistol and shot Detective Kelliher twice in the chest. The subject then shot Detective Kelliher's partner in the right hand and in the right foot preventing him from returning fire. The subject was later captured running through a park.

Both detectives were rushed to Illinois Research Hospital where Detective Kelliher succumbed to his wounds.

The subject was convicted of Detective Kelliher's murder and sentenced to 199 years in prison.

Detective Kelliher was the son of retired Captain Patrick Kelliher.

Bio

  • Age 52
  • Tour 4 years
  • Badge 6695

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; .38 caliber
  • Offender Sentenced to 199 years

juvenile offender, deserter

Most Recent Reflection

View all 16 Reflections

My dad worked out of Warren Avenue and I recall him calling home tonight the detective Kelleher was killed. He just wanted to assure us he was OK. For years afterward, when we say our nightly prayers we would always include the phrase “and God bless LYONS.” My dad spoke of him often. He was a true hero.

John McTIGUE
Son of a CPD Detective Gene McTIGUE

January 24, 2019

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