Sanitary Officer W. L. Steele, Decatur Police Department, Alabama

Sanitary Officer W. L. Steele

Decatur Police Department, Alabama

End of Watch Friday, April 28, 1905

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W. L. Steele

Sanitary Officer W.L. Steele was shot and killed with his own service revolver after making an arrest for a minor offense at 11:15 am. He was walking the suspect to jail when the man began to fight with him. The suspect was able to gain control of Officer Steele's gun and shot him in the chest.

The man fled but was later apprehended and convicted of murdering Officer Steele. He was executed by hanging on June 16, 1905.

Sanitary Officer Steele was responsible for enforcing the city's municipal health code.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Executed in 1905

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Offcer Steele,
On today, the 120th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Decatur.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

April 28, 2025