Line of Duty Deaths - 1800s

DAVID SIRES

Commission Date: Unknown Patrol Officer - Died: October 16, 1881
Original News Report

In 1881, Seattle's population was 3,553. On October 16, 1881, Seattle Police Officer David Sires was shot and killed in the line of duty. He was the first Seattle Police Officer killed in the line of duty. "David Sires died Saturday. After being shot he was insensible for a time but revived and was able to make a statement in regard to the shooting and identify his murderer as Benjamin Payne. Payne is described as a worthless loafer and desperado. Mr. Sires has led a checkered life and was known all over the northern coast as a happy, open hearted type that attached to him many friends. His murder has roused a feeling of deep indignation in Seattle, where he was a popular man and officer, and unless his slayer meets his justice at the hands of the law, the people may take the law into their own hands."

JAMES WELLS

Commission Date: Unknown
Detective - Died: November 28, 1897

On November 28, 1897, at about 8:55PM, Seattle Police Detective James Wells was shot and killed in the line of duty. Detective Wells was transporting a suspect from Washington and Occidental Streets to Police Headquarters in a horse-drawn patrol wagon. When they arrived, the suspect produced a handgun and shot the detective. The suspect shot again when Detective Wells managed to fire his own weapon. A second volley from the assailant also struck the officer. The suspect fled and was captured a short distance away. Detective James Wells died at the scene.

THOMAS ROBERTS

Commission Date: Unknown
Patrol Officer - Died April 10, 1898

On April 10, 1898, during the evening hours, Seattle Police Officer Thomas L. Roberts was shot and killed in the line of duty. Officer Roberts and his partner, Officer Day, were working in the Renton Hills Addition section of the city. The officers stopped two suspicious males intending to question them. One or both suspects produced handgun(s) and opened fire. Both officers were wounded from the exchange of fire. The suspects fled the scene. Officer Thomas L. Roberts died at the scene.