United States of America
Headstone of Francis M. Doyle
U.S. Navy · United States United States

Francis M. Doyle

Died December 29, 1871

Francis M. Doyle served in the U.S. Navy.

How He Died
Manner Homicide
Cause Gunshot wound
Mechanism Firearm
What Happened

Officer Francis Doyle was shot and killed as he and several other officers attempted to force entry into a home at 339 Maryland Avenue while conducting an investigation. Officers had gone to the home earlier in an attempt to recover a stolen watch and were held off by the suspect's wife. When the officers returned, they forced the door open but were immediately fired at by the woman. Officer Doyle was struck in the chest and killed instantly. The woman was charged with murdering Officer Doyle but acquitted at trial. Officer Doyle was a U.S. Navy Veteran of the Civil War and had served with the Metropolitan Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife and three children. His son, who was an infant when he died, joined the Metropolitan Police Department. Officer Doyle was buried at Congressional Cemetery in Washington, DC.

Survivors
He was survived by his wife and three children.
Media
Francis M. Doyle
Francis M. Doyle 0 views
Service Record
U.S. Navy
Also Served
Metropolitan Police Department
Officer
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 43-E · Line 13 cut as FRANCIS M DOYLE
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtmtnk8zcpekjjs0z1953
Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.

Officer Doyle gave the Metropolitan Police Department 5 years.

Thank you for your service to the Washington community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, brother.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

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