In May of 1887, a dedicated officer of the Alexandria Police Department, Private Julian Arnold, met a tragic end in the line of duty. A veteran of the Civil War, he had served his community for seventeen years.
While on foot patrol with his partner, Private Arnold overheard two men plotting to burglarize a saloon in the 1400 block of King Street. The officers decided to seek backup before confronting the individuals. Later that night, accompanied by two citizens, they returned to the location and found the two men lying on the ground. As the officers approached, one of the suspects suddenly jumped up and opened fire. A bullet struck Private Arnold, inflicting a fatal wound.
In the immediate aftermath, one of the suspects was apprehended at the scene. The shooter, however, managed to escape. A subsequent investigation led to the shooter's arrest in Baltimore, Maryland. The two suspects faced legal proceedings for their involvement in the death of Private Arnold. One of the men was ultimately sentenced to five years in jail for his role in the crime, while the other was acquitted of the charges. Private Arnold was survived by his expectant wife and four children.
