Patrolman William J. Otis, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania

Patrolman William J. Otis

Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Wednesday, March 3, 1971

Add to My Heroes

William J. Otis

Patrolman William Otis was killed by a gunshot while he and his partner responded to a burglary in progress call at a home on Centre Avenue in Oakland. The owner of the residence, thinking Officer Otis was the burglar, shot him as he entered a hallway.

Patrolman Otis was taken to Presbyterian University Hospital where he died within the hour.

Patrolman Otis was a U.S Army Reserves veteran and had served with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for 13 months. He was survived by his wife, two year old son, and parents, and sister. He was assigned to the Zone 4 Police Station Oakland.

Bio

Age 23
Tour 1 year, 1 month
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
Offender No charges filed

burglary, fatal funnel

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 20 Reflections

Patrolman Otis,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death 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 USAR during the Vietnam War. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

March 3, 2021