Sergeant Thomas J. Babbington

Thomas J. Babbington

Sergeant Thomas J. Babbington was attacked and shot during an arrest at 319 W Root Street.

On January 21st, 1925, Sergeant Babbington entered a soft drink parlor in search of a wanted offender. While trying to find the suspect, Sergeant Babbington was stopped by the bartender and several patrons. Sergeant Babbington drew his service weapon and exited the establishment in order to call for back-up. The sergeant entered a taxi cab when several men followed behind him and shot him four times. Sergeant Babbington returned fire but did not shoot any of his killers. Sergeant Babbington was rushed to a local hospital. Before succumbing to his injuries he identified a well-known gangster as one of his shooters. Sergeant Babbington died on January 26th, 1925.

The man Sergeant Babbington identified was charged with murder and held without bond. Several of his accomplices were arrested, but later acquitted. The prime suspect's charges were dropped. On March 21st, 1950, his body was found hanging on a barbed-wire fence near Hartsdale, Indiana. He had been shot in the head execution-style.

Sergeant Babbington had served with the Chicago Police Department for 18 years. He was survived by his wife and two sons. He is buried at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.