Police Officer Joseph Keegan, New York City Transit Police Department, New York

Police Officer Joseph Keegan

New York City Transit Police Department, New York

End of Watch Thursday, June 19, 1980

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Joseph Keegan

Police Officer Joseph Keegan was shot and killed with his own gun while attempting arrest a fare evader at the Columbus Circle subway station.

Officer Keegan was patrolling the Columbus Circle subway station when he observed a fare evader. When he attempted to arrest the suspect, a struggle ensued. The suspect gained control of Officer Keegan's handgun and shot him in the head.

The suspect was arrested in Central Park later in the day during a massive manhunt. He was later convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. On April 2021, he was released on parole.

Officer Keegan was assigned to Transit District 1 and had served with the New York City Transit Police Department for 15 years. He was survived by his fiancée, daughter, mother, two brothers and two sisters.

Bio

Age 40
Tour 15 years
Badge 2639

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to 25 years to life

arrest attempt

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God of Justice, I am grateful for the lives and sacrifices of all America’s Peace Officers. They died serving us. Help us never forget. Help us celebrate their lives and honor their sacrifices. Be with the families of these fallen peace officers. Comfort them and give them Your strength and peace. Guide us as we seek to take care of the families of these fallen heroes. May we care for them with integrity. In commemorating the deaths of these fallen heroes, help us also to remember that death is not the end. Death does not have the final say, but is simply the transition from this earthly life to the heavenly life yet to come. This assurance was guaranteed to all believers upon the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. We look forward to that life to come with joy and anticipation. Thank You, Lord God, for hearing this prayer. In the mighty and holy name of Christ Jesus, Your dear Son, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scripture References:

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” [Psalm 23:4 ESV]

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” [John 3:16 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, NACM
Ordained Independent NACM Minister
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers - USA

Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)

June 19, 2025