United States of America
Headstone of William Baumfeld
Headstone shared by 2 interments, including William Baumfeld

William Baumfeld

Died June 28, 1963

William Baumfeld.

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

Patrolman Bill Baumfeld was shot and killed as he attempted to stop a robbery in a hotel at 4:30 am. Patrolman Baumfield and his partner went off duty after making an arrest earlier in the evening. The two patrolmen were to appear in court early the next morning, so they went to the Congress Hotel on West 69th Street for a few hours of sleep. The patrolman got rooms on the first floor, near the check-in counter. As they slept, two youths armed with handguns entered the hotel and robbed one of the workers. The boys then came to the room where Patrolman Baumfeld was sleeping and attempted to rob him. Patrolman Baumfeld was killed as he tried to stop the robbery and apprehend the suspect. Both suspects, 17 and 20, were arrested. The 17-year-old admitted that he shot Patrolman Baumfeld. He was convicted of murder, sentenced to life, and paroled on July 22, 1982. The other suspect, convicted of murder and sentenced to life, was paroled on May 15, 1985. Patrolman Baumfeld was a Korean War veteran and had served with the New York City Police Department for six years, assigned to the 4th Division.

Survivors
He was survived by his parents and brother.
Media
William Baumfeld
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William Baumfeld Shared stone
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Service Record
Also Served
New York City Police Department
Patrolman
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 35-E · Line 18 cut as WILLIAM BAUMFELD
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtqhdp6jn8d5fc14p516t
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.

Patrolman Baumfeld gave the New York City Police Department 6 years.

Thank you for your service to the New York 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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