In the cold winter of 1905, a long-simmering feud between neighbors in Denver, Colorado, erupted into a tragic outburst of violence that would claim the lives of several people, including a dedicated public servant. Doctor Frank Dulin, a 47-year-old male and a respected Police Surgeon with the Denver Police Department, would find himself in the line of fire, a testament to the perils faced by those who rush to the aid of others.
His story is not just one of a life cut short, but a reflection of the unpredictable dangers of law enforcement.
The catalyst for the tragic events of Sunday, March 12, 1905, was a bitter and protracted land dispute between George Shissler and his neighbor, Key Sill. On that fateful day, Shissler, after sending his wife and children to church, took his shotgun and confronted his neighbor. The argument escalated, and in a fit of rage, Shissler shot and killed Sill. He then turned his weapon on Sill's wife, killing her as she tried to flee through a window. The Sill's daughters managed to escape the carnage and raise the alarm.
An ambulance was dispatched to the scene, carrying Police Surgeon Frank Dulin and Captain William Bohanna, who were responding to the report of the shooting. As they arrived, Shissler, who had barricaded himself in his home, opened fire on the ambulance. Both Dulin and Bohanna were struck by the gunfire. The situation quickly escalated into a siege as dozens of police officers surrounded the house. Hundreds of rounds were fired into the home in an attempt to subdue the shooter. After a prolonged gun battle, officers entered the residence to find George Shissler's body; he had been shot and killed during the exchange.
Frank Dulin, gravely wounded, was transported to a hospital, where he fought for his life. Despite the efforts of his medical colleagues, he succumbed to his injuries two days later. Captain Bohanna would also tragically pass away from his wounds three days after the incident. No arrests were made in the deaths of Dulin and Bohanna as the sole suspect was killed at the scene. The death of Police Surgeon Frank Dulin was a somber moment for the city of Denver, a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving their community.
