Fred B. Houghton
Agency: Kansas City Police Department, MO
Fred D. Houghton died on December 2, 1881 at the age of 24 from accidental gunfire.
Officer Houghton was boarding a streetcar at 9th and Central behind Officer Martin Moran when Moran's revolver fell from his pocket and discharged striking Officer Houghton in the leg. Officer Houghton's leg was amputated in an attempt to save his life. Officer Houghton died from his injuries the next day at Sisters Hospital.
Chief Tom Speers and the entire police force took action following the death of Officer Houghton and a resolution was passed in his honor. Direction was given that the entire police department would escort Officer Houghton's remains to the train station the following evening to be taken back to his family home in Orange, Vermont by his brother, Ed Houghton.
Officer Houghton, born in Vermont, had previously worked as a clothing merchant prior to joining the department on May 4, 1880. He was survived by his brothers, Ed and Hardy; an uncle, George; and his parents, Davis and Louisa Houghton.
Reflections:
References: