In an attempt to apprehend a suspect wanted for a string of robberies, Detective Sergeant John Goldhammer, a 12-year veteran of his force, met his untimely end. Working in plainclothes, Goldhammer proceeded to the suspect's residence at 1270 First Avenue in Manhattan to ascertain the individual's whereabouts. Upon his arrival, the suspect himself answered the door.
When Sergeant Goldhammer moved to place him under arrest, the man retreated into his apartment.
He quickly reappeared, now armed with a. 32-caliber revolver he had retrieved from his room. A struggle ensued between the two men, during which the suspect fired a single shot, fatally wounding the sergeant. The first officer to arrive on the scene following the report of the shooting was able to take the suspect into custody without further incident.
The individual responsible for Sergeant Goldhammer's death was subsequently charged with murder. Sergeant Goldhammer, who was in charge of the Rackets Squad, was survived by his wife and their four children.
