Joseph Ollinger, a 52-year-old officer with the Minneapolis Police Department, was tragically killed on July 15, 1911. On that fateful night, Officer Ollinger was approached by two men who were unaware of his status as a police officer. They solicited his help in robbing a bank. Recognizing one of the men as an escaped convict, Officer Ollinger reported the incident to his supervisor and decided to apprehend the suspect.
The suspect, Jerry McCarty, was a notorious criminal and former
prizefighter with a history of violent offenses. McCarty had previously been arrested for shooting at an officer, and his wrists were so thick that police had difficulty handcuffing him. On the night of July 15, Officer Ollinger followed McCarty to a drugstore at 25th and Central Avenue. As he attempted to arrest McCarty, a struggle ensued, resulting in both men being shot. Officer Ollinger succumbed to his injuries, and McCarty was also killed in the confrontation.
Officer Ollinger had served with the Minneapolis Police Department for 15 years and was survived by his wife, Anna, and their 13-year-old son, William. The incident left a profound impact on the community, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty.
