About Robert H. Holmes
Lived 1888 – 1917 (aged 29). Robert H. Holmes was a police officer.
Robert Henry Holmes (July 25, 1888 – August 6, 1917) was the first NYPD African-American officer to die in the line of duty.
Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Holmes was appointed as an NYPD police officer on August 25, 1913. He was assigned to the 38th precinct in Harlem. Officer Holmes was shot to death while chasing and exchanging gunfire with a burglar.
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Important facts
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Robert H. Holmes?
Murdered American police officer (1888–1917)
When was Robert H. Holmes born?
Robert H. Holmes was born on 25 July 1888.
When did Robert H. Holmes die?
Robert H. Holmes died on 6 August 1917.
What was Robert H. Holmes's occupation?
Robert H. Holmes was a police officer.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Robert H. Holmes. https://biography.guide/robert-h-holmes/
MLA: "Robert H. Holmes." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/robert-h-holmes/.
Chicago: "Robert H. Holmes." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/robert-h-holmes/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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