Spokane Police Department, Washington
End of Watch Friday, March 19, 1920
Add to My HeroesWilliam D. Nelson
Jailer William Nelson was killed after being attacked by an insane inmate in the Spokane Jail around 6:40 a.m..
The man had attacked Jailer Nelson after escaping from the "tank". It took over 15 minutes and numerous officers to subdue the inmate.
The inmate was adjudged insane and committed to the state mental asylum. On June 1, 1921, he was deported back to Poland, where he had tried to immigrate from.
Officer Nelson had been with the Spokane Police Department for almost 20 years. He was survived by his wife and daughter.
Bio
- Age 30
- Tour 20 years
- Badge 1671
Incident Details
- Cause Assault
- Weapon Person
- Offender Deported
Most Recent Reflection
View all 9 ReflectionsOfficer Nelson,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Spokane. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
March 19, 2020
Recent LODD Deaths
Police Officer Caleb Abney
Hahira Police Department, GA
EOW: February 19, 2026
Trooper Michael Diego
Florida Highway Patrol, FL
EOW: February 18, 2026
Police Officer Brian Elliott
Beech Grove Police Department, IN
EOW: February 16, 2026
Trooper Hunter R. Bennett
Arizona Department of Public Safety, AZ
EOW: February 4, 2026
Sergeant Robert G. Porfert
New York City Police Department, NY
EOW: March 21, 2025
Police Officer Timothy J. Keane
New York City Police Department, NY
EOW: June 8, 2025
Deputy Sheriff Joe Crumpton
Spalding County Sheriff's Office, GA
EOW: December 9, 2025
Deputy Sheriff Richard A. Haggard
Lee County Sheriff's Department, MS
EOW: February 2, 2026
Police Officer Senior Pradeep Tamang
Gwinnett County Police Department, GA
EOW: February 1, 2026

