Deputy Superintendent James J. Riordan, Chicago Police Department, Illinois

Deputy Superintendent James J. Riordan

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Saturday, June 6, 1981

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James J. Riordan

First Deputy Superindentent James J. Riordan was shot and killed when he confronted an intoxicated person creating a disturbance at 300 North State Street.

Deputy Superindentent Riordan was attending a dinner at a restaurant in Marina City when the incident occurred. As he confronted the intoxicated man the offender produced a .380 caliber handgun and shot him in the chest several times.

The gunman, who had formerly been a police officer in Iowa, was arrested and convicted of Superintendent Riordan's murder. He was sentenced to life in prison.

Deputy Superintendent Riordan had served with the Chicago Police Department for 34 years. He was survived by his wife and seven children. Five of his children went on to serve in law enforcement.

Bio

Age 57
Tour 34 years
Badge 103

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .380 caliber
Offender Sentenced to life

DIP, disturbance, off duty

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I grew up in St. Gertrude Parish with his family. He was well admired by everyone in our close knit neighborhood. I was very young when this happened and was in charge of answering the phone in the choir loft during his funeral. I was just in awe of how many people were there. My dad was a Chicago police officer and knew Mr. Riordan well. I knew many of his kids.

Civilian Brian Ide
Family friend

August 25, 2024