Von R McClelland

End of Watch: Thursday, January 25, 1940

Biographical Info

Age: 28

Tour of Duty: 5 years

Rank: Patrolman

Assignment: Patrol

Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details

Cause of Death: Gunfire

Date of Incident: January 25, 1940

Incident Location: Patrol car

Weapon Used: Officer's handgun

Case Status: Closed

Fallen Hero Generic Website

Narrative

Patrolman Von R. McClelland was shot to death by his detective car partner, Sergeant Walter B. Smith, during an argument in the car.

After two (2) trials and two (2) hung juries, Sergeant Smith pled guilty to voluntary manslaughter and took a two (2) year suspended sentence. He said he fired in self defense.

Patrolman McClelland had been with the agency for five (5) years. He is survived by his wife and son.

To support the men and women of the LMPD, visit the Louisville Metro Police Foundation website to find out more.