10/27/2026
CGPD Remembers…
Patrolman Albert Demortiers was killed in the line-of-duty on Saturday, October 27, 1917, around 11 p.m. on Broadway at the corner of Middle Street. He was the first officer the Department lost in the line-of-duty since the establishment of the Cape Girardeau Police Department (by ordinance) in 1859.
Eye witnesses to the incident advised that Patrolman Demortiers was shot twice from a .32 caliber revolver after he encountered an intoxicated man at a local saloon while walking his beat. Witnesses reported that Patrolman Demortiers staggered from the sidewalk at the southeast corner of Broadway and Middle with a bullet in his right temple and another bullet in the left side of his neck before he fell in the street. Unconscious, Patrolman Demortiers was placed in an automobile owned by Mr. George Bolz and rushed to St. Francis Hospital. Patrolman Demortiers died before he could be treated. The incident was described as "a plain case of cold-blooded murder."
The suspect was arrested at his residence at the corner of Themis and Ellis following the incident. Later accused, the man died in the penitentiary after serving 7 years of an 18 year sentence.
Patrolman Demortiers was 39 at the time of his death. He was survived by his wife, an 11 year old daughter, and a 9 year old son.
Patrolman Demortiers was first appointed to the police force to succeed Patrolman John Talley. Patrolman Demortiers resigned and was replaced by Patrolman E.L. Masterson, however Patrolman Masterson was dismissed after six weeks and Patrolman Demortiers was again appointed to the force. He served with the Department for only six months before his untimely death.
The funeral was at St. Vincent’s Church and burial was in Fairmont Cemetery.
Unfortunately, the Department does not have an employee photograph of Patrolman Demortiers to share with you, but please join us in thanking him for his service and giving the ultimate sacrifice 109 years ago today. He gave service before self and honor above all.
