Brookline Police Department, Massachusetts
End of Watch Monday, August 4, 1930
Add to My HeroesJoseph F. O'Brien
Patrolman Joseph O'Brien was shot and fatally wounded, and a man with him was seriously wounded, by one of two men they surprised in the act of stealing a car. Patrolman O'Brien died in the hospital the next day.
Both suspects were captured a few days later, one in Ashland, the other in New York City. The suspect who shot Patrolman O'Brien was executed in the electric chair on September 15, 1931.
Patrolman O'Brian was survived by his wife. He was a World War I veteran having served in the 101 Machine Gun Company of the 26th Yankee Division.
Bio
- Age 32
- Tour Not available
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Incident Date Sunday, August 3, 1930
- Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
- Offender Executed in 1931
Most Recent Reflection
View all 9 ReflectionsPatrolman O'Brien, it has been 94 years since you were taken from us. New England law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices you, your family, and many others have made for us. Thank you for your military and years of law enforcement service.
Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH
August 4, 2024
Recent LODD Deaths
Police Officer Caleb Abney
Hahira Police Department, GA
EOW: February 19, 2026
Trooper Michael Diego
Florida Highway Patrol, FL
EOW: February 18, 2026
Police Officer Brian Elliott
Beech Grove Police Department, IN
EOW: February 16, 2026
Trooper Hunter R. Bennett
Arizona Department of Public Safety, AZ
EOW: February 4, 2026
Sergeant Robert G. Porfert
New York City Police Department, NY
EOW: March 21, 2025
Police Officer Timothy J. Keane
New York City Police Department, NY
EOW: June 8, 2025
Deputy Sheriff Joe Crumpton
Spalding County Sheriff's Office, GA
EOW: December 9, 2025
Deputy Sheriff Richard A. Haggard
Lee County Sheriff's Department, MS
EOW: February 2, 2026
Police Officer Senior Pradeep Tamang
Gwinnett County Police Department, GA
EOW: February 1, 2026

