Patrolman William F. Messenger

Patrolman William F. Messenger

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Thursday, April 25, 1901

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William F. Messenger

Patrolman William F. Messenger was shot and killed by a man whom he had argued with earlier in the day.

The gunman entered the Harrison Street Police Station and told Patrolman Messenger to take back what he had said earlier. When Patrolman Messenger told the man to leave the station, the attacker pulled out a revolver and started shooting, striking Patrolman Messenger in the chest and side.

A second officer, James Scully, returned fire, wounding the gunman and knocking away his weapon as he attempted to commit suicide. The gunman was taken into custody and died of his wounds the following day.

Patrolman Messenger was taken to St. Luke's hospital where he died from his wounds the next day.

Patrolman Messenger was a U.S. Army veteran and had been with the Chicago Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife.

Bio

  • Age 30
  • Tour 5 years
  • Badge 71
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Wednesday, April 24, 1901
  • Weapon Handgun; Revolver
  • Offender Shot and killed

Most Recent Reflection

View all 8 Reflections

Patrolman Messenger,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army as a member of the 7th Cavalry Regiment.

Garry Owen!

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

May 26, 2024

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