U.S. Marine Corps · United States 
Francis Wirt
1972
Francis E. Wirt served the U.S. Marine Corps for 2 years. Francis also served in the U.S. Marine Corps.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
Mechanism
Firearm
What Happened
Patrolman Francis Wirt and Patrolman Donald Marler were shot and killed when they were ambushed by a suspect while walking their beat on the northwest corner of the town square. The suspect approached them and opened fire with a M-1 rifle. Both officers fell to the ground, wounded. As they pleaded for their lives, the suspect shot and killed them both. The suspect then shot and killed one citizen, wounded Sheriff Bill Gough, and wounded two bank employees before committing suicide. Patrolman Wirt was a United States Marine Corps veteran who had served with the Harrisonville Police Department for about a month.
Survivors
He was survived by his parents and four brothers.
Service Record
U.S. Marine Corps
1969 – 1971
U.S. Marine Corps
Also Served
Harrisonville Police Department
Patrolman
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtpv2cpy0p5c4qh41h3t6
Record added
August 2, 2026
neuraweb.nw
Stewarded by
neuraweb.nw
Last updated
August 2, 2026
This page is permanent and free. No fee to view it, no advertising, no tracking, and no account required. It will not be taken down.
Are you family? This record can be claimed and maintained by those who knew Francis. Claim this record.
Be the first to honor Francis.
Leave a Tribute