United States of America
Headstone of William J. Henderson
U.S. Army · United States United States

William J. Henderson

Died March 3, 1932

William J. Henderson served in the U.S. Army.

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

Policeman William Henderson was fatally wounded when he was shot while investigating a suspicious vehicle. He saw the vehicle idling in front of a drug store on 54th Street and noticed a man sitting inside. As Policeman Henderson walked to a nearby call box, the man in the car shot him in the back. Policeman Henderson was transported to Philadelphia General Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds five days later. No one was ever charged with Policeman Henderson's murder, but it is believed that four burglars were responsible for his murder. The four suspects were charged with the murder of Policeman David Wiley, who was shot and killed one month after Policeman Henderson. Policeman Henderson was a U.S Army veteran and had served with the Philadelphia Police Department for 12 years, assigned to the 65th Street and Woodland Avenue Station.

Survivors
He was survived by his wife and parents.
Media
William J. Henderson
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Service Record
U.S. Army
Also Served
Philadelphia Police Department
Policeman
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 6-W · Line 17 cut as WILLIAM J HENDERSON
In Our Keeping
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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.

Policeman Henderson gave the Philadelphia Police Department 12 years.

Thank you for your service to the Philadelphia 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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