End of Watch: Wednesday, November 17, 1926
Cause: Gunfire
Age: 45
Tour of Duty: 5 years
Badge Number: Not available
Patrolman George Staats was shot and killed while checking a
freight train for trespassers. He was shot as he opened a sliding door on
one of the boxcars.
A wire notice had been received to search trains for two suspects in
connection with an attempted robbery in Godfrey. Patrolman Staats and
another officer were dispatched and began searching boxcars at the station.
When Patrolman Staats opened the door of the boxcar the suspects were hiding
in they began shooting. Both officers took cover and the suspects fled past
a high school building. Patrolman Staats was found by the other officer by
the depot building and he was rushed to a nearby hospital where he succumbed
to his wounds.
The suspects were later arrested near Bunker Hill. The shooter was convicted
of murder and sentenced to life in prison. He was given the choice of being
executed by hanging or serving a life sentence and chose the latter. At
sentencing, the judge stated he would concede to the convicted man's wishes.
Patrolman Staats had served with the Carlinville Police Department for five
years. He was survived by his wife and daughter.
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