Patrolman Joseph E. Gonya, Boston Police Department, Massachusetts

Patrolman Joseph E. Gonya

Boston Police Department, Massachusetts

End of Watch Sunday, October 21, 1923

Add to My Heroes

Joseph E. Gonya

Patrolman Joseph Gonya was shot and killed while attempting to apprehend three auto theft suspects in Cleary Square.

Two suspects were eventually apprehended. Both of them were charged with murder but were acquitted at trial.

Patrolman Gonya was a U.S. Navy veteran of WWI who had served with the Boston Police Department for four years and had previously served with the Mansfield Police Department. He was survived by his parents, brother, and two sisters.

Bio

Age 27
Tour Not available
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
Offender Acquitted

arrest attempt, auto theft

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 14 Reflections

On the anniversary of your passing the Offices both active and retired of the Boston Police Department remember your service and sacrifice to the city of Boston and Boston Police.

Retired Boston P.O. Robert E. Anthony Historian

October 21, 2025