From the Office of Chief of Police Donald B. Anderson
Darien, CT Police Department
May 23, 2021
Memorial Day 2021
As all Americans pause and remember those who died in the pursuit of freedom and to maintain the protections and liberties afforded by our great nation this Memorial Day, the members and the families of the Darien Police Department will also mark a solemn anniversary on May 31, 2021.
On May 31, 1981, while responding to a burglar alarm at the Duchess Patio Restaurant on the Boston Post Road in the early hours of the morning, Officer Kenneth E. Bateman Jr. was shot and killed by one of the perpetrators committing the burglary. Although this heinous crime remains unsolved, many Darien officers and investigators, now over several generations, have diligently continued and furthered the investigation into his murder. Rest assured, this investigation will not cease until such time that those persons responsible are identified and brought to justice.
To solemnly remember the 40th anniversary of Officer Bateman’s death, the Darien Police Department will post and illuminate 40 candles in front of the Darien Police Department building commencing at sunset on Sunday, May 30, 2021. The candles will burn throughout the night into May 31, 2021 in honor of Officer Bateman and will be extinguished at noon on Memorial Day, when both the Connecticut and United States flags are again returned to full staff per the United States Flag Code and by Presidential proclamation.
This Memorial Day, as we all remember the fallen Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our great nation, we also remember and honor one of our own. Please join the entire staff of the Darien Police Department, past and present, sworn and civilian, in remembering Officer Kenneth E, Bateman Jr., who paid the ultimate price while in the performance of his sworn duty to serve and protect.
Donald B. Anderson
Chief of Police