William Messenger
1901
William F. Messenger served the U.S. Army.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
Mechanism
Firearm
What Happened
Patrolman William F. Messenger was shot and killed by a man whom he had argued with earlier in the day. The gunman entered the Harrison Street Police Station and told Patrolman Messenger to take back what he had said earlier. When Patrolman Messenger told the man to leave the station, the attacker pulled out a revolver and started shooting, striking Patrolman Messenger in the chest and side. A second officer, James Scully, returned fire, wounding the gunman and knocking away his weapon as he attempted to commit suicide. The gunman was taken into custody and died of his wounds the following day. Patrolman Messenger was taken to St. Luke's hospital where he died from his wounds the next day. Patrolman Messenger was a U.S. Army veteran and had been with the Chicago Police Department for five years.
Survivors
He was survived by his wife.
Service Record
U.S. Army
Also Served
Chicago Police Department
Patrolman
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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