WD
U.S. Army · United States 
William Downing
1901
William C. Downing served the U.S. Army.
How He Died
Manner
Accident
Cause
Multiple traumatic injuries
What Happened
Special Policeman William Downing was accidentally shot and killed in the Union Pacific Railroad yards in Denver, Colorado.
He was attempting to board a boxcar between 22nd Street and 23rd Street when his revolver was accidentally discharged. The round pierced his badge and struck him in the chest, killing him instantly.
Special Policeman Downing was a U.S. Army veteran of the Spanish-American War and had served with the Union Pacific Railroad Police for five years.
He was attempting to board a boxcar between 22nd Street and 23rd Street when his revolver was accidentally discharged. The round pierced his badge and struck him in the chest, killing him instantly.
Special Policeman Downing was a U.S. Army veteran of the Spanish-American War and had served with the Union Pacific Railroad Police for five years.
Survivors
He was survived by his parents, brother, and sister.
Service Record
U.S. Army
Also Served
Union Pacific Railroad Police Department
Special Policeman
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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