Detective William E. Loscheider

William E. Loscheider

Detective William Loscheider was accidentally shot and killed by another officer in a case of mistaken identity.

Detective Loscheider, along with other officers, was working on a stakeout of a liquor company in the 700 block of Broadway following information from an informant. After observing three men entering the business, officers were given orders to move in. The suspects quickly fled after spotting the officers, one of whom was apprehended immediately.

A second officer was chasing the suspects when he lost sight of them. As Detective Loscheider approached the scene with his gun drawn in the darkness, the second officer did not recognize him and ordered him to drop his gun. When Detective Loscheider didn't comply, the officer fired from his shotgun, fatally wounding him.

The burglars were later apprehended, charged, and convicted of murder for Detective Loscheider's death.

Detective Loscheider was a United States Korean War veteran and had served with the Joliet Police Department for 11 years. He received 17 commendations, including one for rescuing a girl from a fire. He was survived by his wife and daughter.

Since his death, the Joliet Police Department organized the Police Athletic League and the field at Plainfield and Wyoming was dedicated in his memory.