Private Robert B. Harris, Alexandria Police Department, Virginia

Private Robert B. Harris

Alexandria Police Department, Virginia

End of Watch Saturday, September 11, 1948

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Robert B. Harris

Private Robert Harris was shot and killed while making a routine check near a restaurant at the intersection of North Washington Street and Montgomery Street. He had interrupted a burglar at the back door of the business when he was shot.

One year later a man in Richmond was overheard confessing to the crime. He was indicted for the officer's murder but first faced prison for a murder elsewhere. The suspect went to trial more than 20 years later, but his confession was ruled inadmissible and the charge was dismissed.

Private Harris, who served with the U.S. Air Force in WWII, had been with the Alexandria Police Department for only 19 days. He is survived by his wife and infant son.

Bio

Age 22
Tour 2 weeks
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Charges dismissed

burglary

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Most Recent Reflection

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Pvt. Harris,
On today, the 75th 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 Air Forces during World War II. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

September 11, 2023