On July 1st, 1973, Dayton Police Patrolman Daniel H. Bruns was attempting to diffuse a confrontation when he suffered critical injuries from getting shot.

He was off duty and had gone to a bar to see its owner, who was a friend. As he walked through the door, he found her arguing with two men who had been fighting. After identifying him as a police officer, she asked Patrolman Bruns to eject them. So he began to escort the men out. But just when they reached the door, one of them suddenly pulled a handgun and fired, hitting Bruns in the forehead. The man fled but was soon apprehended at a nearby residence.

Daniel died of his injuries two days later, on July 3rd, 1973. The 19-year-old shooter was sentenced to 15 years to life.

Patrolman Bruns was 50 years old at the time of his death, and had served with the Dayton Police Department for 23 years. He was survived by his wife, mother, stepson, two stepdaughters, and three sisters.

Daniel was a decorated U.S. Army World War II and Korean War veteran, who had been wounded in both. He was considered a hard-working officer, and had been awarded two commendations for procedural innovations. He was widely known for being easygoing, funny, and likeable, and for his ability to handle people. He liked his job and was very proud of being an officer.