Patrolman James Michael Oconnor, 27, was killed on September 16, 1995, after confronting suspects in a purse-snatching outside El Jardin restaurant at 3335 North Clark Street in Chicago. Off-duty and seated in his car, Oconnor saw two men grab a woman’s purse and flee in a Toyota Corolla. He pursued and attempted to block their vehicle; as he approached the Corolla he was struck twice by gunfire, once in the top right shoulder and once in the chest.

Despite his wounds, Oconnor returned fire and struck the driver, Franklin Drew Matthews, four times. Matthews crashed while attempting to flee and later died from his injuries. The passenger, Raymond Ervin Thomas, who was believed to have been involved in previous robberies, was arrested shortly after and charged with first-degree murder and robbery. Oconnor was pronounced dead at the scene and is remembered by the department and community for his actions and sacrifice.

If anyone witnessed the robbery or the pursuit near North Clark Street that day, please come forward with information.