Patrolman John F. Evans

Patrolman John F. Evans

Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Thursday, August 6, 1885

Add to My Heroes

John F. Evans

Patrolman John Evans succumbed to a gunshot wound sustained two days earlier while attempting to arrest a man he had just witnessed punch another man outside of a saloon on 6th Street, between Penn Avenue and Fort Duquesne Way.

When Patrolman Evans rushed to the suspect to arrest him he was shot once in the stomach. The suspect fought with another Patrolman at the scene and shot the other Patrolman in the ear and then fled the scene to a nearby hotel. He was picked up 30 minutes later after a group of people who witnessed the shooting led other Pittsburgh Officers to him.

Patrolman Evans was taken to a nearby hospital and then to his home where he succumbed to his wounds on the evening of August 6.

The suspect was sentenced to death but committed suicide before the sentence was carried out.

Patrolman Evans served with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for six months and was survived by his parents, and siblings.

Bio

  • Age 31
  • Tour 6 months
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Tuesday, August 4, 1885
  • Weapon Handgun; .44 caliber
  • Offender Committed suicide in jail

arrest attempt, assault

Most Recent Reflection

View all 6 Reflections

Patrolman Evans,
I left a previous reflection for you when I got the number of years since your EOW wrong. On today the 140th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Pittsburgh.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

August 6, 2025

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.