In the winter of 1915 in Indianapolis, a 28-year-old male police officer named Elmer Anderson tragically lost his life in the line of duty. A bicycle patrolman for the Indianapolis Police Department, he had been with the force for three years and was known for his efficiency, often partnering with Officer George Stone. The two had developed a close friendship during their six months working together.
On January 14th, Officers Anderson and Stone responded to a report of a vicious dog
terrorizing a neighborhood and having bitten a child. Arriving at the scene on their motorcycles, they were immediately confronted by the aggressive animal. As the dog lunged at Officer Anderson, he jumped to the side to avoid being attacked. In that same moment, his partner, Officer Stone, discharged his firearm at the dog.
Tragically, as Officer Anderson moved, he inadvertently crossed into the path of the bullet fired by his partner. The shot struck him in the back, passing through his stomach. He was rushed to a local hospital for medical attention. Despite the efforts of the medical staff, Officer Anderson succumbed to his injuries the following morning, on January 15, 1915. He was survived by his wife and their four-year-old daughter.
The death of Officer Anderson was a devastating event for his family and the police department. His partner, Officer Stone, was reportedly heartbroken by the accidental shooting. A coroner's investigation was conducted to determine the circumstances of the shooting. The coroner ultimately ruled that the shooting was accidental, and Officer Stone was officially cleared of any blame in the incident. There were no arrests or suspects in the traditional sense, as the death was determined to be a tragic accident that occurred in the line of duty.
