Patrolman John Fuchs

John Fuchs

Patrolman John Fuchs was shot and killed while attempting to settle a dispute between a homeowner and firefighters.

The firemen were playing a Fourth of July baseball game and had repeatedly hit the ball into the flower garden of a private home. When the homeowner threatened the firemen with a shotgun, Patrolman Fuchs was sent to the scene. When Patrolman Fuchs attempted to remove the shotgun and make an arrest, he was shot in the chest.

The suspect surrendered to another officer soon after. He was charged with murder, but acquitted in December 1866.

Patrolman Fuchs, who served one year, was a member of the Town of Morrisania Police Department, which merged with the New York City Police Department in 1874. The 42nd Precinct now covers the area where Patrolman Fuchs was killed.

He also served three years in the New York Heavy Artillery (1862-1865).

Patrolman Fuchs was survived by his wife and three children.