BPD Remembers: The Boston Police Department remembers the service and sacrifice of Officer James B. Roche who died on this day 88 Years Ago. On March 21, 1936, Officer James B. Roche suffered a fatal heart attack while at the scene of a motor vehicle accident.
Officer Roche was a 13-year veteran of the department. He was 46-years old at the time of his death. Officer Roche was laid to rest at Holyhood Cemetery in Brookline.
His name is forever imprinted on the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C. on Panel 30, West Line 2. His name can also be seen on the BPD’s Hero Wall at Boston Police Headquarters and the Massachusetts State Law Enforcement Memorial located on the lawn of the Massachusetts State House in Boston.
In Boston, a Hero Sign has been placed in his honor in the area of Faneuil Street and Harriet Street in Brighton. The sign is to forever honor the memory of a man who gave his life in service to his city. If you ever find yourself in the area and you happen to see his Hero Sign, kindly take a moment to honor and acknowledge the service and sacrifice of a brave man who died protecting and serving his city.
