Charles A. Hooper

Patrolman

New Haven

End of Watch: 11/4/1892

Patrolman Hooper, the first black patrolman who was 31 years old and a four- year veteran. Patrolman Hooper was sent to the area of Manfield and Sachem St on the report of two burglars in the area. Patrolman Hooper gave pursuit of one suspect into the Canal Railroad Line where Patrolman Hooper fell down a decent onto the tracks. Patrolman Hooper severely injured his knee which ultimately caused his death.

The first black patrolman joined the department, as a police supernumerary in 1888 at the age of 27. He was promoted to a patrolman in 1891. In the spring of 1892 Patrolman Hooper and his partner Patrolman Moore were sent to a report of two burglary suspects in the area of Mansfield and Sachem St. The suspects were found and fled in different directions. Patrolman Hooper chased a suspect into the Canal Railroad Line, which was below street level and he fell down a decent onto the tracks and severely injured his knee. Patrolman had his leg amputated due the injury, which lead to complications and his death on 11/04/1892