The men and women of the Boston Police Department remember the service and sacrifice of Officer Jose A. Maceira who died as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty 48 years ago today.
Officer Jose Maceira joined the Boston Police Department in February of 1974. Several short months later, on November 23, 1974, Officer Maceira was shot during a violent confrontation with a suspect in the area of Humphrey Place in Dorchester. The injuries sustained that day would have long-lasting implications, ultimately resulting in Officer Maceira’s passing away on May 1, 1977, at the age of 33.
Officer Maceira was the first Hispanic Boston Police Officer to lose his life as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty. He was survived by his son and sister. Officer Maceira was also a United States Navy Veteran.
Officer Maceira is buried at the Mount Hope Cemetery in Roslindale. His name is located on the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C. on Panel 16-W Line 30. 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 is posted at the intersection Clifton Street and Dudley Street. 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.