In the winter of 1927, the life of Federal Prohibition Agent George W. Dykeman, a male World War I veteran, came to an abrupt and tragic end on the streets of West New York, New Jersey. On Friday, January 14th, Agent Dykeman was participating in a raid on an establishment serving beer, a common occurrence during the era of Prohibition. Following the arrest of two individuals, the situation took a sudden turn when one of the men attempted to escape custody.
A chase ensued through a nearby alleyway. In his effort to recapture the fleeing suspect, Agent Dykeman reached for his service weapon. As he drew the firearm from its holster, it slipped from his grasp. The holstered gun struck the ground and, upon impact, discharged a single, fatal shot.
The bullet struck Agent Dykeman in the abdomen.
Despite his grievous injury, the suspect he had been pursuing was ultimately apprehended and taken back into custody. However, for George W. Dykeman, the day's events would prove to be his last. He succumbed to the gunshot wound, his death a result of a tragic accident in the line of duty. He was survived by his wife. The incident was not treated as a homicide, and therefore no suspects were sought in connection with his death.
