WJ
U.S. Army · United States 
William Johnston
1921
William J. Johnston served the U.S. Army.
How He Died
Manner
Accident
Cause
Multiple traumatic injuries
What Happened
Wagonman William Johnston was killed when the patrol wagon he was driving was struck by a streetcar at the intersection of Alexander Street and South Main Street.
He was en route to a fire when the collision occurred. He was taken to Presbyterian Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries later in the evening. Two other officers riding in the wagon suffered minor injuries.
Wagonman Johnston was a Union Army veteran of the Civil War and had served with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for almost 18 years. He was a widower who was survived by his second wife, six adult children, and five siblings. He was assigned to the West End Police Station, present-day Zone 6 Police Station West End.
He was en route to a fire when the collision occurred. He was taken to Presbyterian Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries later in the evening. Two other officers riding in the wagon suffered minor injuries.
Wagonman Johnston was a Union Army veteran of the Civil War and had served with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for almost 18 years. He was a widower who was survived by his second wife, six adult children, and five siblings. He was assigned to the West End Police Station, present-day Zone 6 Police Station West End.
Survivors
He was a widower who was survived by his second wife, six adult children, and five siblings.
Service Record
U.S. Army
Also Served
Pittsburgh Bureau of Police
Wagonman
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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