Detective John W. Schaefer, Jr., Louisville Police Department, Kentucky

Detective John W. Schaefer, Jr.

Louisville Police Department, Kentucky

End of Watch Sunday, May 2, 1971

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John W. Schaefer, Jr.

Detective John Schaefer and Detective Wilbur Hayes were shot and killed while checking two men in an alley at approximately 10:00 pm, on Waterbury Street near Breckinridge Street.

As the officers attempted to arrest the men for burglary of a roofing company one of them produced a gun and opened fire, striking both officers from behind.

Both subjects were apprehended three days later and subsequently convicted of two counts of murder October 29th, 1971.

Patrolman Schaefer had served with the Louisville Police Department for 18 months. He was survived by his child.

Bio

Age 28
Tour 1 year, 6 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Convicted of murder

burglary, plainclothes

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Det. Schaefer,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you to you and your Partner for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Louisville. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

May 2, 2021