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Richard Lewis Chatburn

Agency: Kansas City Police Department, MO

On September 23, 1962 Officer Richard Chatburn and his partner were conducting a building check at the Northeast Motorcycle shop, located at 4400 Truman Road. While checking the back door of the business, the operator of the shop, Douglas Mack Hubbard, was staying in the business due to previous problems, shot through the back door with a 12 gauge shotgun, striking Officer Chatburn in the chest. He was pronounced dead on arrival at the old Menorah Hospital. Hubbard was shot by other officers on the scene believing him to be a prowler but survived his wounds. Hubbard was tried for manslaughter but found not guilty by a Jackson County grand jury in May 1963.

Patrolman Chatburn had been with the Kansas City Police Department for 19 months and had served with the United States Navy for four years. He was survived by his wife, Bonnie, and three month old daughter, Bernadine.

Reflections: 

I think of you often around Sept when you gave your life for the great city of Kansas City. I along with PO Billy Reed, Richard Hodel, Sgt. John Bartlett were with you at 4400 Truman Road. Rest in peace my friend. You are not forgotten.

Sgt, George Stone 
KCPD

We worked together in the old Sheffield Station (#3) and still remember you very well. - Rest in peace brother despite the passing time with fond memories of bygone days....R.I.P.

Ptl. Ralph Castillo 
KCPD

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