Officer Rank: Detective
Department: Indianapolis, Indiana, P.D.
End of Watch: 06/18/1900
Cause: Physical-related incident
Age: 50
Length of Service: 24 years
Beginning in late May 1900, Detective Thornton conducted a stakeout of a residence to apprehend a suspect wanted for the murder of Cleveland Patrolman John Shipp. Detective Thornton remained at his post in inclement weather for several days and contracted a cold. Although ill, Detective Thornton refused to leave his post until ordered to do so by his captain on June 2nd. Detective Thornton remained bedridden until his death due to pneumonia two weeks later on June 18th. The suspect was apprehended, convicted in a court of law, and executed via the electric chair in 1901.
