Patrolman Joseph E. Chapman, Jr.

Joseph E. Chapman, Jr.

Patrolman Joseph E. Chapman, Jr. was shot and killed at 5302 S. Indiana Avenue when he interrupted a robbery in progress while off duty.

He and the store's owner were friends and were and were visiting. Just before the fatal shooting, Patrolman Chapman went to the rear of the store to use the bathroom. A subject entered the store, jumped the counter, and announced a robbery to the clerk. At this time, Patrolman Chapman entered the store from the rear, identified himself, and then exchanged shots with the subject. Both Patrolman Chapman and the subject were fatally wounded.

Patrolman Chapman was struck five times and died on the operating table at Provident Hospital.

Patrolman Chapman had served with the Chicago Police Department for 31 years. He was survived by his wife and six daughters. His wife also served with the Chicago Police Department and was assigned to the Youth Bureau.