Walter Thomas Barclay Jr. was a 64-year-old Philadelphia Police Department officer who died on August 19, 2007, from complications tied to a gunshot wound he suffered 40 years earlier. On November 27, 1966, Officer Barclay was shot twice while answering a burglary call at a hair salon on North 5th Street; the suspect fled after exchanging gunfire with other responding officers. The wounds left Barclay paralyzed from the waist down and forced his retirement; he experienced ongoing complications that eventually led the medical examiner to rule his death a homicide.

The suspect, William Barnes, was arrested in 1966, convicted of aggravated assault and given a 15-year sentence. After Barclay’s death Barnes was rearrested and charged with murder; his defense argued continued imprisonment was vindictive and violated his constitutional rights. On May 24, 2010, Barnes was acquitted of the murder charges, though he remained incarcerated on technical parole violations. Officer Barclay is remembered by colleagues, family and the community for his bravery and dedication.

If anyone knew Officer Barclay or has information about the 1966 shooting, please share what you know.