BPD Remembers: 107 years ago today, on February 13, 1919, Officer Charles E. Deininger was shot and killed by two suspects during an auto theft stakeout in the area of Meridian and Nay Streets in East Boston. Five suspects were later apprehended and two were charged with his murder. Prior to joining the police department in 1908, Officer Deininger also worked a few years as a Boston Firefighter while assigned to Engine 37. Reports at the time of his death professed that Deininger was one of the best liked police officers on the force.
Officer Deininger was an 13-year veteran of the department and was 38-years-old at the time of his death. He was survived by his wife and two children.
Officer Deininger was laid to rest at Mount Hope Cemetery in Mattapan. His name is located on the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C. on Panel 48, West Line 7. His name is also forever engraved on the Hero Wall at Boston Police Headquarters and the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial at the State House in Boston.
In Boston, a Hero Sign has been placed in his honor in the area of Meridian and Nay Streets in East Boston. 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.