Patrolman Charles L. Godfrey, New York City Police Department, New York

Patrolman Charles L. Godfrey

New York City Police Department, New York

End of Watch Tuesday, May 12, 1925

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Charles L. Godfrey

Patrolman Charles Godfrey was inadvertently shot and killed after being mistaken for a suspect as he attempted to make an arrest while off duty.

Patrolman Godfrey observed a reserve officer and his wife being attacked. He took immediate action to apprehend suspects and, while in pursuit of them, was killed by friendly fire.

Patrolman Godfrey was a United States Army WWI veteran who had served with the New York City Police Department for one year, assigned to the 16th Precinct, the present-day 32nd Precinct. He was survived by his wife and three children.

He is buried in Cypress Hill Cemetery in the Police Arlington Gardens, Brooklyn, New York.

Bio

Age 24
Tour 1 year, 4 months
Badge 11688
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)
Weapon Officer's weapon
Offender Not available

friendly fire, off duty

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Most Recent Reflection

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Patrolman Godfrey,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army during World War I. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

May 12, 2025