On May 31, 1981 at approximately 3 AM, Officer Kenneth E. Bateman Jr. of the Darien Police Department was shot and killed as he investigated a burglar alarm activation at "Duchess", a fast food restaurant. This restaurant is located on the Boston Post Road (Rt. 1 ) near the Darien/Norwalk town line.

Officer Bateman, just 34 years old at the time of his death, was a seven year veteran of the Darien Police Department. Ken had also served his country as a member of the U.S. Navy. He left behind his wife, Barbara, and his parents, Kenneth Sr. and Gladys Bateman.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Darien Police Department Detective Bureau at (203)662-5330.