Patrolman Charles Herbert Barnhart, Girardville Borough Police Department, Pennsylvania

Patrolman Charles Herbert Barnhart

Girardville Borough Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Monday, September 23, 1940

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Charles Herbert Barnhart

Patrolman Charles Barnhart succumbed to complications of a gunshot wound sustained on September 2nd, 1940, in front of the Cantwell Hotel at approximately 1:00 am.

A suspect who had recently been questioned by the Girardville police chief regarding the bombing of a railroad car encountered the chief inside the hotel and became involved in an argument with him. The man left the hotel, but returned approximately 45 minutes later and starting shooting a rifle at the hotel. Patrolman Barnhart, who was standing in front of the hotel, was struck in the leg.

He was transported to a local hospital where the wound eventually developed gangrene. His leg was amputated in an effort to save his life, but he passed away on September 23rd, 1940.

The subject was arrested by members of the Pennsylvania State Police two hours after the shooting. He was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to six to 12 years in prison.

Bio

Age 43
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Monday, September 2, 1940
Weapon Rifle
Offender Sentenced to 12 years

retaliation

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Patrolman Barnhart, I am not sure if you are a recent LODD discovery or if somehow through the craziness of our everyday lives you slipped through the cracks of the frequent visitors on this amazing site. Either way, on this 80th anniversary of your untimely and heroic departure, I am incredibly honored to be the first of what I am sure will be many additional people to say thank you and to let you know that your service and sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten. Rest in peace always sir.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

September 23, 2020