Patrolman William O'Brien

William O'Brien

Patrolman William O'Brien was shot and killed while investigating a burglary, at 290 Garson Avenue, at approximately 9:00 pm.

Patrolman O'Brien responded to the scene on his police motorcycle and caught the man exiting the back door of the house. When he ordered the man to stop the subject fired a single round, striking Patrolman O'Brien in the chest. Despite being mortally wounded, Patrolman O'Brien was able to return fire but did not strike the man.

The subject fled to the front of the house and dove through a window to escape. A special police officer who was working in the area due to a recent rash of burglaries heard the gunshots and also responded to the scene. He captured the suspect following a short foot pursuit.

The suspect was convicted of Patrolman O'Brien's murder and sentenced to death. He was executed on July 29th, 1920.

Patrolman O'Brien had served with the Rochester Police Department for five years and had previously served with the Rochester Fire Department.