Patrolman Tobias J. "Toby" Brown, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania

Patrolman Tobias J. "Toby" Brown

Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Saturday, August 23, 1941

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Tobias J. "Toby" Brown

Patrolman Toby Brown was shot and killed by a suspect as the man was being placed into a patrol car near the intersection of Vespucius Street and Second Avenue.

The incident occurred in a parked radio cruiser as three officers sought to arrest two men accused of molesting several victims on Second Avenue. As one of the suspects resisted arrest and being placed into the patrol car, he drew .45 caliber handgun and began firing, striking Patrolman Brown in the chest and head, and a second officer in the chest.

The third officer on the scene was able to return fire, fatally wounding the man in the head. Patrolman Brown was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Patrolman Brown had served with the Pittsburgh Police Department for 14 years and had previously served with the United States Army in World War I. He was survived by his wife, daughter, and two sons. One of Patrolman Brown's sons, a grandson, and a great-grandson all served in law enforcement.

Bio

Age 45
Tour 15 years
Badge 867
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .45 caliber
Offender Not available

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Most Recent Reflection

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Lord Jesus, I thank you for granting me my life-long dream of becoming a Pennsylvania State Trooper which started with Grandpa Toby, who I did not know. I heard the stories of the man and father he was and the protector he strove to be. Thank you for letting me know my dad for the eight-years of my life we spent together. He was my earthly hero. I felt the love he gave me and our family and how he sacrificed for us. Thank you for letting me see his example of care and love for others while he performed his job as a police officer, but mostly for the loving human being he was. You know his example is what placed the desire in my heart to become a police officer. Lord, You are the only One who knows my heart and I pray that I performed my duties according to your will. I pray for my country, that the divisions cease and that people begin to see what we have in common. I pray for Your peacemakers Lord, the Godly police officers who are trying to do your will daily. Protect them from the constant assault of evil and help keep them pure and focused on You. I love you Lord and I am humbled by all the blessings You have given me in my life. Jesus, You are my Lord, my Savior and my Hero.

Retired Trooper Paul Brown
Grandson of Officer Toby Brown

July 12, 2021