U.S. Army · United States 
John McGrath
1921
John J. McGrath served the U.S. Army.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
Mechanism
Firearm
What Happened
Police Officer John McGrath was shot and killed when he attempted to search two juvenile brothers near St. Louis Avenue and Kingshighway Boulevard. As he began the search one of them produced a .32 caliber revolver and shot him in the chest. He was able to return fire but did not strike either boy. The two boys were apprehended and charged with Officer McGrath's murder. Both were acquitted after a jury concluded their confessions could not be used as evidence. Officer McGrath was a U.S. Army veteran and had served with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department for two years.
Survivors
He was survived by his expectant wife.
Service Record
U.S. Army
Also Served
St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department
Police Officer
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
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Record added
August 2, 2026
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Last updated
August 2, 2026
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