Patrolman Charles L. Godfrey

Patrolman Charles L. Godfrey | New York City Police Department, New York Patrolman Charles L. Godfrey | New York City Police Department, New York
New York City Police Department, New York
Patrolman Charles L. Godfrey | New York City Police Department, New York
Patrolman Charles L. Godfrey | New York City Police Department, New York
Patrolman Charles L. Godfrey

New York City Police Department, New York

End of Watch Tuesday, May 12, 1925

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Charles L. Godfrey

Patrolman Charles Godfrey was inadvertently shot and killed after being mistaken for a suspect as he attempted to make an arrest while off duty.

Patrolman Godfrey observed a reserve officer and his wife being attacked. He took immediate action to apprehend suspects and, while in pursuit of them, was killed by friendly fire.

Patrolman Godfrey was a United States Army WWI veteran who had served with the New York City Police Department for one year, assigned to the 16th Precinct, the present-day 32nd Precinct. He was survived by his wife and three children.

He is buried in Cypress Hill Cemetery in the Police Arlington Gardens, Brooklyn, New York.

Bio

  • Age 24
  • Tour 1 year, 4 months
  • Badge 11688
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)
  • Weapon Officer's weapon
  • Offender Not available

friendly fire, off duty

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Patrolman Godfrey,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army during World War I. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

May 12, 2025

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