Patrolman John M. Fugate

John M. Fugate

Patrolman John Fugate succumbed to a gunshot wound he received on May 1, 1933, while investigating a grocery store burglary on North Seventh Street in Greenfield.

The suspect, who was hiding behind the counter, suddenly jumped up and opened fire, striking Patrolman Fugate and his partner, Patrolman Thomas Caniff. Patrolman Caniff succumbed to his wound two weeks after the incident.

Patrolman Fugate was transported to Athens State Hospital, where he stayed until he passed away 31 years later. The coroner determined that Patrolman Fugate's death was a direct result of the gunshot wound received in 1933.

The suspect was convicted of Patrolman Caniff's murder and sentenced to death. The suspect committed suicide in jail prior to his execution date.

Patrolman Fugate had served with the Greenfield Police Department for three years. He was survived by his wife, daughter, two sons, and four grandchildren.