William P. Fahey, a 34-year-old white male, was a dedicated patrolman with the Chicago Police Department. On February 9, 1982, he was tragically killed in the line of duty during a routine traffic stop. The incident occurred at approximately 2:00 PM at the intersection of 81st Street and Morgan Street in Chicago, Illinois. Fahey and his partner, Patrolman Richard J.
O'Brien, had just attended the funeral of another officer, Patrolman James Doyle, earlier that day.
The officers stopped a vehicle for running a red light. As Patrolman Fahey approached the passenger side and ordered the passenger out of the car, a struggle ensued. The passenger, later identified as Andrew Wilson, managed to gain control of Fahey's .357 Magnum revolver and shot him behind the left ear at close range. The bullet caused severe brain damage, and Fahey succumbed to his injuries the following morning without regaining consciousness. Patrolman O'Brien was also shot multiple times during the altercation and died shortly after the incident.
The suspects, Andrew Wilson and his brother Jackie Wilson, were apprehended and charged with the murders of Patrolmen Fahey and O'Brien. Both men were convicted and initially sentenced to death. However, in 2003, then-Governor George Ryan commuted their sentences, along with those of all other inmates on Illinois' death row, to life imprisonment.
The case of William P. Fahey's murder was a significant event in Chicago's history, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement officers. Fahey, who had served with the Chicago Police Department for 10 years, was remembered for his dedication and bravery. He received numerous commendations during his career, including 19 honorable mentions and several letters of appreciation. Fahey left behind a wife and three children, and his sacrifice is commemorated by a bridge over the Chicago River on Columbus Avenue, dedicated in his memory.
