Phoenix Police Department, Arizona
End of Watch: Tuesday, February 19, 1952
Age: 30
Tour of Duty: 6 years
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Vehicular assault
Date of Incident: February 19, 1952
Weapon Used: Automobile; Alcohol involved
Suspect Info: Sentenced to 10 days
Officer Walter Stewart was killed when he was thrown from his police motorcycle at Washington Street and 20th Street. He lost control of his motorcycle when he swerved to avoid the driver of a pickup truck who pulled out in front of him.
The 29-year-old driver fled the scene, but was soon apprehended and charged with negligent homicide, reckless driving, drunk driving, and leaving the scene of an accident. He was convicted of leaving the scene of an accident and sentenced to 10 days in jail.
Shortly after this accident the Phoenix Police Department required all motorcycle officers to wear helmets while on duty.
Officer Stewart is survived by his wife, son, and eleven siblings. He was a World War II veteran.