James William Bloesch, 37, a San Francisco Police Department officer of 17 years, died on August 2, 1988, from an accidental gunshot wound at the department’s stables in Golden Gate Park. He and a partner were examining a .357 Magnum to see if it had been altered to fire with a lighter touch when the weapon discharged, striking Bloesch in the head and killing him instantly. His partner, Officer Robert Mahoney, was handling the firearm at the time; the investigation concluded the shooting was an accidental discharge and no criminal charges were filed.

Bloesch had been recognized for bravery during his career, receiving a Silver Medal of Valor and two Bronze Medals of Valor. The tragedy touched his family directly: his sister Irene Ager was among the paramedics who responded, and the registered owner of the gun was her husband, Steven Ager. Bloesch left a son, Matt Bloesch, who was 13 at the time.

If anyone knew Officer Bloesch, worked at the stables that day, or has information about the incident, please share what is remembered.