Patrolman John J. Donohue

John J. Donohue

Patrolman Donohue was attacked and killed by a man he had arrested several times prior. The suspect was a frequent customer at an unsavory saloon on 1st street. The suspect and several others had taken exception to the fact that Patrolman Donohue had arrested them on several occasions for disorderly behavior.

On the night in question, a group of 13 men waited for Patrolman Donohue to approach. When he did, they began singing vulgar songs. Patrolman Donohue ordered them to stop, and they did. When Patrolman Donohue turned to leave, one of the men struck Patrolman Donohue on the head with a heavy cart ring, killing him. Other officers arrested the subject on the scene. The subject was convicted of murder and executed on December 6, 1872.

Patrolman Donohue was assigned to the 5th Precinct, the present day 90th Precinct. He is buried at Calvary Cemetery, Woodside, New York.