The Boston Police Department Remembers the Service and Sacrifice of Patrolman William R. Beckman Who Died in the Line of Duty 48 years Ago Today

BPD Remembers: The men and women of the Boston Police Department remember the service and sacrifice of Officer William R. Beckman 48 Years ago today. On Wednesday September 1, 1976, Boston Police Officer William Beckman suffered a fatal heart attack in the line of duty after responding to a vandalism call in the area of 325 Commonwealth Avenue in the Back Bay. On arrival, Officer Beckman became involved in a foot pursuit and subsequently made an arrest when he collapsed after placing the suspect in his cruiser.

Officer Beckman was 52 years old at the time of his passing and had served with the Boston Police Department for 21 years. He was survived by his wife and their five children. He was also a United States Navy Veteran.

Officer Beckman was laid to rest at St. Mary's Cemetery in Needham, MA. His name is located at the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C. on Panel 24, West Line 11. 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 on Boylston Street at Ring Road on District D-4 (South End). 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.