Detroit Police Department, Michigan
End of Watch: Saturday, March 15, 1952
Age: 49
Tour of Duty: 22 years
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: March 15, 1952
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Deceased
Detective Russell Blanchard was shot and killed while responding to a robbery call at a local store at 17906 John R Street. Three suspects had forced the store employees into the manager's office.
As Detective Blanchard and his partner entered the store one of the suspects opened fire, striking Detective Blanchard. As the three suspects fled, the one who shot Detective Blanchard was subdued by another officer arriving on the scene with a flying tackle. The suspect died later at the hospital from injuries he sustained while being subdued.
Detective Blanchard was transported to Highland Park General Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Detective Blanchard had served with the Detroit Police Department for 22 years. He was survived by his wife, daughter, four brothers, and two sisters.