BPD Remembers: The men and women of the Boston Police Department remember the service and sacrifice of Officer Joseph M. Mullen who was killed in the line of duty on this day 53 years ago. On Monday, December 18, 1972, Officer Mullen was killed when he was struck by a motor vehicle while directing traffic during an overtime assignment at the John Hancock Tower in Copley Square.
Officer Mullen was 61 years of age at the time of his death and had served the department for 35 years. Making his passing ever more tragic is the fact that he left behind a grieving wife and two children.
Officer Bartlett was laid to rest at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in West Roxbury. His name is located on the National Law Enforcement Memorial in our Nation’s Capital on Panel 13, East Line 15. His name is also inscribed on the BPD’s Wall of Honor located on the 1st floor of Boston Police Headquarters, as well as, the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial located on the grounds of the Massachusetts State House on Beacon Street in Boston.
In Boston, a Hero Sign is posted to honor his life and service in the area of Trinity Place and Stuart Street in Boston’s Back Bay. If you’re passing through the area, please keep an eye out for his Hero Sign and kindly take a moment, not only to honor his sacrifice but to remember the loved ones left in mourning in the wake of his tragic passing.