Postal Inspector Ernest M. Harkins, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Government

Postal Inspector Ernest M. Harkins

United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Government

End of Watch Wednesday, January 12, 1949

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Ernest M. Harkins

Postal Inspector Ernest Harkins was shot and killed in the Main Post Office and Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

He was checking his post office box when a man walked up next to him and shot him in the back of the head. The suspect was upset at Inspector Harkins over the loss of two $20 money orders. The man remained at the scene and turned himself in after murdering Inspector Harkins.

He plead guilty to murder on a government reservation and was sentenced to life in prison. He died in prison on July 31st, 1971, at the age of 96.

Inspector Harkins was survived by his wife and two daughters.

Bio

Age 51
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Location Oklahoma
Weapon Handgun; .22 caliber
Offender Sentenced to life imprisonment

ambush, retaliation

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Inspector Harkins,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

January 12, 2024