On the first day of 1908, a tragic event unfolded in Knoxville, Tennessee, that would mark the darkest day in the history of the city's police department. Patrolman Mike Wrenn, a 42-year-old Caucasian male and a respected 10-year veteran of the force, was killed in the line of duty. The incident also claimed the life of his partner, Patrolman O.L. Jarnigan.
The two officers were attempting to arrest a 23-year-old man when a violent struggle ensued.
In the midst of the confrontation, the suspect managed to gain control of a handgun and fired, striking both officers in the head. The wounds proved fatal for both Patrolman Wrenn and Patrolman Jarnigan, sending a shockwave of grief through the community and their families. The news was so devastating that upon hearing of his son's death, Patrolman Jarnigan's 65-year-old father suffered a fatal shock.
The suspect was subsequently apprehended and faced the consequences of his actions. He was convicted for the murders of the two officers and sentenced to prison. His life behind bars came to an end on November 8, 1918, when he succumbed to influenza.
Patrolman Mike Wrenn was survived by his wife and three children, who were left to mourn the loss of a dedicated husband, father, and public servant. The violent deaths of the two officers served as a grim reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement and left a lasting scar on the Knoxville community.
