BPD Remembers: On Saturday, February 5, 1994, Officer Berisford Wayne Anderson’s life was tragically cut short when he was shot and killed after stopping a speeding, wrong-way driver in the area of Spencer Street in Dorchester. This February, as we observe Black History Month, we pay homage to Officer Anderson’s sacrifice and service.
Officer Anderson, who had completed his tour of duty, courageously confronted the vehicle while dressed in civilian clothes, having already removed his uniform and ballistic vest. Despite identifying himself as a Boston Police Officer, the driver pulled out a handgun and fatally shot Officer Anderson. The suspect, with outstanding warrants, was apprehended shortly afterward.
With 14 years of dedicated service to the Boston Police Department, Officer Anderson rests at the Forest Hills Cemetery in Jamaica Plain, leaving behind a wife and five children. His name is etched on the National Law Enforcement Memorial, panel 15, east line 19, as well as on the Hero Wall at Boston Police headquarters and the Police Memorial at the State House in Downtown Boston.
In honor of his heroism, a commemorative Hero Sign stands at the intersection of Spencer Street and Talbot Avenue in Dorchester, serving as a lasting tribute to Officer Anderson’s bravery and sacrifice.