The Boston Police Department Remembers the Service and Sacrifice of Patrolman James D. Hughes Who was Killed in the Line of Duty 89 Years Ago Today

BPD Remembers: The men and women of the Boston Police Department remember the service and sacrifice of Officer James D. Hughes who was killed in the line of duty on this day 89 Years Ago.

While walking the beat in East Boston, Officer James Hughes was struck and killed by a motor vehicle while crossing the street in the area of Bennington and Walley Streets on September 10, 1935. The operator of the car never stopped to render aid while fleeing the scene of the hit-and-run accident. He was transported to an area hospital (East Boston Relief Hospital), where he later succumbed to his injuries. After a description of the fleeing vehicle was telephoned to police, officers began a search of the surrounding area for the suspect's car. The search led them to 182 Chelsea Street, where the suspect was located and arrested.

Officer Hughes was a veteran of WWI, and served 10 years with the Boston Police Department. He was 38 years old at the time of his death. He was survived by his wife, as well as his brother, Frank, who was also a Boston Police Officer.

Officer Hughes was laid to rest at the St. Joseph's Cemetery in West Roxbury. His name is located at the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C. on Panel 15, East Line 2. His name is also forever engraved on the Hero Wall at Boston Police Headquarters and the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial at the State House in Boston.

In Boston, a Hero Sign has been placed in his honor in the area Bennington Street and Walley Street in East Boston. The sign is to forever honor the memory of a man who gave his life in service to his city. If you ever find yourself in the area and you happen to see his Hero Sign, kindly take a moment to honor and acknowledge the service and sacrifice of a brave man who died protecting and serving his city.