Case Number: 9165
Thorn, Ralph - Age 28 Shot to death at 4:17 PM, in rear of 3053 N. Western Ave., by Patrolman Thomas Gartland, while attempting to escape arrest during a raid on a moonshine still. On 12/4/26 officer Gartland was exonerated by the Coroner. 30 Dist.
Circumstances
| Date of Offense | November 20, 1926 |
|---|---|
| Date of Death | November 20, 1926 |
| Address | 3053 N. Western Ave. |
| Type of Location | Street, or other non-commercial public place/alley |
| Type of Public Place | Street, sidewalk or alley |
| Location Description | in rear of 3053 N. Western Ave. |
| Type of Death | Manslaughter |
| Description | Victim killed resisting arrest |
| Total Number of Victims | 1 |
| Location | in rear of 3053 N. Western Ave. |
| Type of Manslaughter | Unintentional killing with gun |
Victim
| Name | Thorn, Ralph |
|---|---|
| Age | 28 years |
| Gender | Male |
| Race | White |
| Ethnicity | English-Anglo |
Defendant
| Name | Gordland, Thomas |
|---|---|
| Gender | Male |
| Ethnicity | English-Anglo |
| Race | White |
| Employed | Yes |
| Employment Type | Employed, professional (incl. police and military) |
| Occupation/ Skill | Law Enforcement, Police |
Police
| Allegations of Police Corruption | No |
|---|
Legal
| Date of Coroner's Decision | December 4, 1926 |
|---|---|
| Outcome of Coroner's Judgment | Exonerated, Commended |
| Charges Against Defendant | No |
| Type of Legal Decision Recorded | Coroner's verdict only |
| Allegations of Police Corruption | No |
