Patrolman Joseph Zannelli, Kansas City Police Department, Missouri

Patrolman Joseph Zannelli

Kansas City Police Department, Missouri

End of Watch Sunday, May 19, 1901

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Joseph Zannelli

Patrolman Joseph Zannelli accidentally shot himself in the right leg while chasing a man wanted for assaulting a streetcar conductor near 5th and Holmes on April 27, 1901. A gangrene infection developed as a result of the wound and Officer Zannelli's leg was amputated, but the gangrene spread throughout his body. He died on May 19, 1901.

Patrolman Zannelli had been with the agency for 18 months and was the first Italian-American to serve on the Kansas City Police Department.

Bio

Age 32
Tour 1 year, 6 months
Badge 138

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)
Incident Date Saturday, April 27, 1901

accidental discharge, foot pursuit

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Most Recent Reflection

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Grandpa, I will always continue to share your sacrifice for the future generations of our family. I have treasured everything grandma saved of yours. I would never have been able to know you but that doesn’t mean I don’t feel you in my heart.

Patricia Adams
Granddaughter

October 20, 2025