David Joe Kraxner
Agency: Independence Police Department, MO
Lt. Kraxner, an Army veteran, was 34 when he died in the line of duty, from three gunshots.
On patrol a little after midnight on Oct. 31, 1966, Kraxner was one day shy of his sixth anniversary with the Independence Police Department. He had already made sergeant and then lieutenant, for which his daughter said he had worked hard. “He didn’t do it for the money,” says his daughter, Deborah McGhee.
Kraxner, said by those who knew him to have a keen memory, was at U.S. 40 and Norfleet at about 12:45 a.m. on Oct. 31 and noticed a 1950 Pontiac that had been reported stolen. He radioed dispatch that he was pulling the car over at 40 and Crysler, and he asked for backup, standard procedure.
Marola, the suspect driving the Pontiac was fleeing that day in fact he had stolen a vehicle. Major John Cato states, “I heard from stories that Lt. Kraxner had a phenomenal memory. That was before the day of print out and in-car computers and he recognized that license plate on that 1950 model car as being a plate that was discussed as being stolen earlier and that’s what led to the car stop at 40th and Crysler.”
Merola got out of the Pontiac and started toward Kraxner’s unmarked car. When Kraxner got out, Merola shot him, knocking him backward. Kraxner was able to draw his weapon and fire, wounding Merola.
Merola was then able to walk to Lieutenant Kraxner’s vehicle, gain control of his service weapon, and shoot him execution style.
The suspect was apprehended later in the morning and pleaded guilty in order to avoid the death penalty. He was subsequently sentenced to life plus 39 years in prison. Lieutenant Kraxner's killer was denied parole in January 2012.
Lieutenant Kraxner was survived by his wife and children. His daughter, Deborah, reflects that it was rough for her family, too, but she said the community’s outpouring of love and support – even a college fund for the kids – did help. Her faith has helped, too.
“We live in a world where we’re kind of caught up in the day. It’s what’s happening today. But it’s important to remember that a family such as the Kraxners has dealt with this loss for 50 years. In many respects that raw pain is just as recent today as it was then. Grandchildren, great-grandchildren. People who only know of grandpa by stories. I think it’s important to get together and remember that although the sacrifice is marked on a particular day, it’s something that many people in the family, and ultimately in the police department live with for decades to come,” said Major Cato.
Reflections:
To my Dad Lt. David Kraxner. We did not have much time together. I was only 2 yrs. and 10 months when you were murdered in the line of duty. My life has been very hard, due to not having you here. From all I've been told you were a great and honorable man. I wish I could have known you. You live forever in my heart. I love you Dad. R.I.P.
Rebecca Berlin Kraxner-Kendall
Daughter
I remember what a kind, gracious man Dave was. My husband Don was his Sgt. as well as a friend. Don would have been with him that fateful nite but David insisted that he stay home one more night to help me with our 5 day old daughter. David and his family will always be held close in the hearts of the Independence Police Dept. family
Jan Huntsinger
Honorary IPD Officer -friend
I wish I had the pleasure and honor of knowing you. I Have been blessed to hear stories about you from my dad.
Kellie Kraxner Long
Cousin
I am so pleased to see this tribute to David. He was one of my first heros as a child, along with my brothers Jerry (George Gerald) and Bill (William Robert) Kraxner. I will always remember the line of vehicles that followed my Uncle Jack (David's dad) and the rest of our family to David's grave site, the officers who fired his salute, and the hundreds of people who honored him the day of his funeral. In spite of the years, David still lives in my heart as the model of dedication to public service who sacrificed his life to catch a dangerous felon.
Anna Kraxner
Cousin
This was my grandfather. I hope he rests in peace and that some day Merola will meet his maker (s)
Granddaughter
Dave I am sorry I didn't "Ride Over" with you as we had originally. If I would, I'm sure you would would be alive today. I relive this guilt almost every day.You did so much for me recommending me for "Officer of the Month" by the KIWANIS. I will NEVER forget you or the times we had together on "Ride Overs" I'm so very,very,very sorry Lieutennt.
Kevin A. Hemp
Former I.P.D. patrolman
Even though I have never met you, you will always be an inspiration for me in all that I do. Love you grandpa.
Nathan McGhee
Eldest Grandson
I'm so SO very, very sorry, Dave. If I only would have been there.
Kevin Hemp
Former I.P.D.
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