The Cleveland Police Museum is honored to tell the stories of our Fallen Officers on the anniversary of their End of Watch.
Leroy Bouker was appointed to the Cleveland Police Department on February 12, 1891 and was assigned to the 3rd and 2nd Districts.
On November 27, 1912, three hold-up men shot the clerk at William S. Bracken’s meat market on St. Clair Avenue. Hearing the shots, Patrolman Bouker approached the three suspects as they were climbing into a car. Bouker drew his gun and ordered the suspects to stop. Ignoring Bouker’s order, they drew their guns and shot at Bouker. Bouker was struck in the head and chest by three of the shots and fell to the ground. Patrons from a nearby saloon helped the wounded patrolman inside, where he died minutes later. The offenders were sentenced to life in prison.
Services for Patrolman Bouker were held at his home on 1440 West 74th Street and Reverend Dan F. Bradley of the Pilgrim Congregational Church officiated. A detail of policemen, members of the Lake Shore K of P, many friends and police retirees were in attendance. The funeral procession proceeded in horse drawn carriages to Brooklyn Heights Cemetery. Bouker was survived by his wife, Caroline, sons H.L., Clarence and Frank H. Bouker, and daughters, Delia and Helen Bouker.
