Police Officer William Washington, Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

Police Officer William Washington

Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Wednesday, January 16, 1980

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William Washington

Police Officer William Washington was shot and killed from ambush while responding to a domestic disturbance call at the 2200 block of South Bonaffon Terrace in southwest Philadelphia.

The suspect had barricaded himself in his residence after assaulting his wife and children. When Officer Washington approached the house at 5:00 p.m., the suspect shot Officer Washington with a rifle from a second-floor window.

The 34-year-old suspect was taken into custody by other officers arriving on the scene. He had been convicted of attempted murder in 1969 and again in 1971. He was convicted of Officer Washington's murder and sentenced to life.

Officer Washington was a United States Army Vietnam War veteran and had served with the Philadelphia Police Department for nine years. He was engaged to be married at the time of his death. He was survived by his parents and sister.

Bio

Age 30
Tour 9 years
Badge 9614
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Rifle; .30-.30
Offender Sentenced to life

ambush, barricade, convicted felon, domestic

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Officer Washington,
On today, the 45th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

January 16, 2025