On September 18th, 1927, Dayton Police Patrolman William C. Horn was attempting to arrest a suspect when he suffered critical injuries from getting shot.

While on motorcycle patrol he had pulled over a suspicious vehicle before disarming and arresting its driver for carrying a concealed weapon. But just as he was putting the suspect into the sidecar the man suddenly lunged, grabbed the confiscated gun and fired, hitting Patrolman Horn in the chest. Despite being shot Horn managed to regain control of the gun and fire at the fleeing suspect, who was later shot and apprehended by fellow officers.

William died of his injuries at the scene. Although initially charged with murder, the 38-year old suspect was later retried in a different venue and acquitted.

Patrolman Horn was 37 years old at the time of his death, and had served with the Dayton Police Department for 12 years. He was survived by his wife, four sons, and daughter.

William had served in nearly every bureau in the department, and was known as a diligent and conscientious officer who was unfailingly honest and reliable. He was considered a complete gentleman who was kind, thoughtful and considerate, and very popular.