HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Today marks the 50th Anniversary for when Officer Ken Kennedy died in the line of duty. In honor of Officer Kennedy, officers will be wearing a mourning band.
On Friday, September 15th, 1972, Officer Kennedy, and Reserve Officer Michael Coldren went to Robert E. Lee, a restaurant that served chicken, at 918 S Plum in plain clothes in an attempt to buy liquor in violation of the law.
After the undercover purchase of illegal liquor, the officers attempted to arrest the male suspect and a fight ensued. A female exited the kitchen area during the struggle and shot both officers.
Officer Kennedy returned fire and struck the female suspect twice. Officer Kennedy pulled the trigger two more times on his revolver but did not have the strength to have the hammer fall. Officer Ken Kennedy succumbed to his injuries and died on scene.
Officer Coldren was rendered unconscious from a gunshot to the head and when he regained consciousness summoned help. The section of K-61 that runs through Hutchinson was named in honor of Officer Kennedy.