Died on:
April 12, 1894
Age 54
Salt Lake City Police Department
Accidental: Shooting
Sergeant Wilson died from an accidental gunshot wound. The 54-year-old victim was working as the morning desk sergeant in the Salt Lake City police station when a new patrolman dropped a loaded pistol. The weapon discharged as it hit the floor. The .45-caliber bullet struck Sgt. Wilson in the right knee, shattering his femur. He was taken to a hospital where the leg was amputated. During surgery, doctors discovered that the bullet had ranged up into his torso. Sgt. Wilson died approximately five hours after being shot. A member of the department for three years, Sgt. Wilson was married and the father of six children. His widow gave birth to the couple’s seventh child the following day. He is buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery. His bronze name plaque is sponsored by Salt Lake City Police Sergeants Association.