Patrolman August Baker
In the history of the Cumberland Police Department there has only been 1 documented line of duty death, Patrolman August Baker. On the evening of October 3, 1907, Patrolman Baker was working in the Shantytown area of the city, which was regarded as one of the roughest spots on the C&O Canal. It was a mixture of bars, boarding houses, and bordellos.
Routine to Tragedy
That evening William Burns had just been thrown out of Preston's Saloon, and was causing a public disturbance on the street. Patrolman Baker observed the disorderly Burns and placed him under arrest. As they started to walk towards the Police Station, Burns resisted and removed a pistol from his pocket, shooting the officer in the chest. Both men fell to the ground, and with the assistance of several bystanders, Patrolman Baker was able to subdue Burns. Shortly thereafter Patrolman Baker passed out from the loss of blood. He was treated at the scene by Dr. H.E. Mitchell, and then transported to Allegany Hospital.
Following the shooting, Patrolman John Trieber arrived at the scene, and, with the assistance of several citizens, transported William Burns to the Police Station by carriage. He was booked, and later transferred to the county jail on Prospect Square.
Patrolman Baker was operated on in the early morning hours of October 4, 1907, and his condition remained critical throughout the day. At 3:30 a.m. on October 5, 1907, with his wife by his side, August Baker died from the single gunshot wound.