Police Officer Daniel G. Ellis, Detroit Police Department, Michigan

Police Officer Daniel G. Ellis

Detroit Police Department, Michigan

End of Watch Wednesday, February 3, 1971

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Daniel G. Ellis

Officer Daniel Ellis was shot and killed near Mother Charleszetta Waddles Perpetual Mission at 3700 Gratiot while attempting to protect citizens from a mentally deranged person with a firearm.

Officer Ellis pushed his partner out of the line of fire moments before the gunman shot but withheld return fire for fear of striking a mother and child standing just behind the gunman. He was struck several times and died en route to the hospital.

The suspect, 51, was taken into custody a short time later. He had 14 previous convictions, including one for manslaughter in 1956 for beating his wife to death. He was acquitted of Officer Ellis' slaying by reason of insanity. In 1975 his application for release was denied.

Officer Ellis was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the Detroit Police Department for 7 years. He was survived by his wife and two sons.

Bio

Age 29
Tour 7 years
Badge 890
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Committed

EDP, mentally ill

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Most Recent Reflection

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I remember this often. My dad was back up and knew officer Ellis well. I remember him being interviewed for the news and it was the first time I remember seeing him cry. It broke his heart and spoke so highly of Officer Ellis. This tragedy always touched my soul. RIP and thank you for the lives you saved

Catherine Gammicchia
Daughter of Officer Sam Gammicchia

March 25, 2023