JO
James O'Connell
1904
James D. O'Connell.
How He Died
Manner
Accident
Cause
Multiple traumatic injuries
What Happened
Doorman James O'Connell died from injuries sustained in a gas explosion at the Atlantic Avenue Police Station.
Doorman O'Connell was on duty at the Atlantic Avenue Police Station when he smelled gas. Doorman O'Connell went into the basement to investigate. While in the basement, he lit a match to locate the leak. As he searched for the leak, there was an explosion. Doorman O'Connell was severely burned. He was taken to Saint Mary's Hospital, where he died four days later from his injuries.
Doorman O'Connell served with the New York City Police Department for 15 years. Doorman O'Connell was a veteran of the Civil War, enlisting with the First Massachusetts Cavalry in July 1862. He served as an orderly to General Meade at the Battle of Gettysburg. After the Civil War ended, he moved to New York City with his family.
Doorman O'Connell was survived by his wife, two daughters, and a son.
Doorman O'Connell was on duty at the Atlantic Avenue Police Station when he smelled gas. Doorman O'Connell went into the basement to investigate. While in the basement, he lit a match to locate the leak. As he searched for the leak, there was an explosion. Doorman O'Connell was severely burned. He was taken to Saint Mary's Hospital, where he died four days later from his injuries.
Doorman O'Connell served with the New York City Police Department for 15 years. Doorman O'Connell was a veteran of the Civil War, enlisting with the First Massachusetts Cavalry in July 1862. He served as an orderly to General Meade at the Battle of Gettysburg. After the Civil War ended, he moved to New York City with his family.
Doorman O'Connell was survived by his wife, two daughters, and a son.
Survivors
Doorman O'Connell was survived by his wife, two daughters, and a son.
Service Record
Also Served
New York City Police Department
Doorman
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtp4q52k6sh6tr156k9gg
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 James. Claim this record.
Be the first to honor James.
Leave a Tribute