In the winter of 1911, the city of Boston lost a dedicated public servant in a tragic turn of events. Richard J. Gallivan, a 35-year-old White / Caucasian male, was a patrolman with the Boston Police Department. On the evening of February 8, 1911, Officer Gallivan was in the midst of a determined pursuit of burglary suspects through the downtown streets. In the heat of the chase, a fellow officer accidentally discharged his weapon.
The bullet struck Gallivan in the neck, inflicting a fatal wound.
The incident that claimed the life of the seven-year veteran of the force was a somber reminder of the unpredictable dangers faced by law enforcement officers. His death was not the result of a malicious act, but a tragic accident that occurred in the line of duty. Consequently, there were no suspects identified or arrests made in connection with his death. The event was a profound loss for the Boston Police Department and the community he served.
Officer Richard J. Gallivan was survived by his wife, brother, and sister. In the years that followed, his sacrifice has been honored and remembered. His name is engraved on the Hero Wall at Boston Police Headquarters and the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial at the State House in Boston. A Hero Sign has also been placed at the intersection of Federal Court and Federal Street in downtown Boston to forever commemorate the officer who gave his life in service to his city.
