United States of America
Headstone of David I. Bergum

David I. Bergum

Died February 17, 1949

David I. Bergum.

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

Police Officer David Bergum was shot and killed while questioning a suspicious person at Ash Street near 17th Street around 4:15 a.m. His partner was shot and wounded. The 19-year-old suspect, who had just finished serving a robbery term and was the son of a former policeman, escaped but was later caught and arrested at a friend's home. He was convicted of murder and sentenced to life. On November 18, 1953, he stabbed and seriously wounded a fellow inmate and then tried unsuccessfully to take his own life. He was still in prison in 1967. Officer Bergum was a United States Army WWII veteran and had served with the Detroit Police Department for five years.

Survivors
He was survived by his expectant wife, son, and daughter.
Media
David I. Bergum
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Service Record
Also Served
Detroit Police Department
Police Officer
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 38-E · Line 13 cut as DAVID I BERGUM
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.

Police Officer Bergum gave the Detroit Police Department 5 years.

Thank you for your service to the Detroit 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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