BPD Remembers The Service And Sacrifice Of Lieutenant Benjamin Alexander Killed In The Line Of Duty 99 Years Ago Today

BPD Remembers: On Saturday, July 4, 1925, Lieutenant Benjamin Alexander was killed in the line of duty during the Pickwick Club building collapse on this day 98 years ago. Lt. Alexander was trailing and tracking a jewelry thief inside the building when it collapsed. This incident claimed the lives of 44 people.

Lieutenant Alexander was 42 years old at the time of his death and had served with the Boston Police Department for 16 years. On this day, we take a moment to honor and remember Benjamin's service and sacrifice, as well as the hardships and heartache felt by the family he left behind, which included his wife and six children.

Lieutenant Alexander was laid to rest at the Woburn Jewish Cemetery in Woburn, Massachusetts. His name is located on the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C. on Panel 14, East Line 8. 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 at the former location of the Pickwick Club near Beach Street at Washington Street in Chinatown. 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.