United States of America
Headstone of Ward Lee Canfield
U.S. Army · United States United States

Ward Lee Canfield

Died March 2, 2000

Ward Lee Canfield served in the U.S. Army for 3 years and 6 months. Ward served during the years of World War II.

How He Died
Manner Homicide
Cause Gunshot wound
What Happened

Patrolman Canfield and his partner had stopped three suspects who were driving a stolen vehicle and were also wanted for robbery and kidnapping. Patrolman Canfield was shot and run over by the suspects’ vehicle and dragged nearly 30 feet. He died 42 years later from his injuries. The County Medical Examiner listed the cause of death as “Homicide . . . Multiple complications of gunshot wound and blunt force injuries (42 year interval).” His partner, Officer Robert Fossum, was shot in the head and died at the scene.

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Ward Lee Canfield
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Service Record
U.S. Army
1942 – 1945
Also Served
Minneapolis Police Department
Patrolman
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 56W · Line 22 cut as WARD LEE CANFIELD
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtnhx1naecbe7d131d44y
Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
Stewarded by neuraweb.nw
Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I never knew you. I am standing here anyway.

Patrolman Canfield gave the Minneapolis Police Department 12 years.

Thank you for your service to the Minneapolis community. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, Patrolman Canfield.

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

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