Probationary Patrolman Ralph S. Souders

Ralph S. Souders

Probationary Patrolman Ralph Souders was shot and killed while attempting to stop a robbery at a local store at 5361 South Morgan Street. Patrolman Souders had been assigned to guard the store as the result of a string of recent robberies.

Two men entered the back room of the store and immediately held Patrolman Souders at gunpoint. A moment later, Patrolman Souders lunged at one of the suspects, who opened fire, killing him. Both suspects were taken into custody.

The gunman was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. His accomplice was sentenced to life. On June 20th, 1925, the gunman attacked his accomplice in prison with a knife and stabbed him five times. He died the next day. A few weeks later, the gunman killed himself by setting his clothes on fire.

Patrolman Souders was a United States WWI veteran and served with the Chicago Police Department for two months. He was survived by his expectant wife and son.

He is buried in Mount Carmel Cemetery, Section T, Hillside, Cook County, Illinois.