George Edward Lanigan
Agency: Kansas City Police Department, MO
Detective Lanigan joined the police department in 1958. He was a member of the St. James Catholic Church.
Patrolman Lanigan was shot and killed while assisting FBI agents serve warrants on two suspects. Patrolman Lanigan, three officers, and four FBI agents were staking out a mobile home at the Antioch Trailer Court, located at 4531 Troost Avenue, just north of Parvin and Antioch Rd when two wanted men they were looking for arrived and open fire. In the exchange of gunfire Patrolman Lanigan was killed, another officer and one of the suspects were wounded, and the other suspect was critically wounded. Detective Lanigan died at 4:00 am at North Kansas City Hospital.
One suspect was wanted for violating his parole and the other was wanted for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution on charges of assault and armed robbery in Portland, Oregon.
He was survived by his wife, Latain, and two sons, Larry and Robert.
Reflections:
George, you came to my assistance once in 1963- I haven't forgotten, and died assisting other officers. May you rest in peace bro.
Former Ptl. Ralph Castillo
KCMOPD
Spent the night a time or two at the home on Jansen Pl. with Bob, my classmate at St James. On Good Friday, I was spending the night at my aunts as my mom was in the hospital. The news came on with a Special Report announcing the shooting. I remember it like it was yesterday. 1968 was a tough year. Bob lost his dad and in November I lost my mom. I went away to boarding school and we lost touch. NEVER FORGET. Would love to get in touch again
John Wheeler
Boyhood friend of officer Lanigan's son
I love you grandpa. I wish I could have had the chance to meet you. You made your sons proud and we all miss you so much.
Jordan Lanigan
Granddaughter
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