In a hail of gunfire on a tragic Saturday, May 17, 1902, Atlanta Police Officer Thomas S. Grant was killed in the line of duty. The incident unfolded along McDaniel Street, near what was then known as Amy Street, as Officer Grant and his fellow officers attempted to apprehend a gang of criminals. These individuals were wanted for the beating of a former police officer with whom they had previous conflicts.
The criminals had barricaded themselves inside a house and, from concealed positions, opened fire on the approaching officers. The ensuing shootout was fierce and claimed the lives of not only Officer Grant but also Atlanta Police Officer Edward Crabtree, and two other lawmen, Policeman Hugh Osburn and Bailiff Ed Battle of the Fulton County Office of Inspector of Roads and Bridges.
In the chaotic aftermath, several of the suspects attempted to flee the besieged house. Their escape was cut short as they were shot and killed by the remaining officers and concerned citizens who had joined the fray. The confrontation reached a dramatic and fiery conclusion when the house was burned to the ground. The leader of the gang was later found dead within the charred remains of the structure.
