Police Officer Gerald William Hempe, Milwaukee Police Department, Wisconsin

Police Officer Gerald William Hempe

Milwaukee Police Department, Wisconsin

End of Watch Wednesday, January 31, 1973

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Gerald William Hempe

Officers Gerald Hempe and Charles Smith were shot and killed during a traffic stop at 10:06 pm.

While attempting to arrest the driver of the vehicle, a struggle ensued. During the struggle, a bystander who witnessed the stop walked up to the officers and opened fire, striking them both in the neck and head. The bystander had nothing to do with the stop.

The suspect, 27, was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to two consecutive life sentences on June 12, 1973. He was denied parole in 2010 and 2023. He has another parole hearing on May 11, 2027.

Officer Hempe had served with the Milwaukee Police Department for six years.

Bio

Age 31
Tour 6 years, 2 months
Badge 1356

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to life

ambush, traffic stop

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Hempe,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you to you and your Partner for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Milwaukee. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

January 31, 2023