Patrolman Martin S. Murrin

Martin S. Murrin

Patrolman Martin Murrin was shot and killed with his own service weapon while attempting to arrest a known gang member who had an active warrant for aggravated assault.

Patrolman Murrin and his partner spotted the subject while patrolling the "Hill" area. After a brief car chase, the suspect stopped at Woodruff Road and Draper Avenue and fled on foot. The suspect gained control of Patrolman Murrin's gun and shot him five times after a short foot pursuit.

The suspect was later captured in Mexico, extradited to Illinois, and sentenced to death. In 1996, he received a retrial based on a technicality, was found guilty of manslaughter, and sentenced to time served.

Patrolman Murrin was a United States Army Vietnam War veteran and had served with the Joliet Police Department for 14 years, receiving 13 commendations and letters of appreciation. He is survived by his wife, son and daughter. His father was a retired Lansing Police Captain, and his brother also served the Lansing Police Department.