Patrolman Arthur R. Cornthwaite

Patrolman Arthur R. Cornthwaite

17 Feb 1936

The Sun (1837–1987), p. . 16

Patrolman Cornthwaite Dies as Result of Fall

Northeastern District Police Officer Succumbs to Injury Received when he Slips on ice at the corner of Caroline and Jefferson Streets

Patrolman Arthur R. Cornthwaite of the Northeastern Police District died last night [February 16] at the Sydenham Hospital as the result of head injuries suffered Wednesday night when he slipped and fell on the ice at Caroline and Jefferson Streets.

Born at Mount Washington, Baltimore County, the officer was educated in the Baltimore County schools. He became a member of the Police Department in December 1934, after having served as the head of the Bertillon Department of the: Maryland House of Correction for a number of years.

Patrolman Cornthwaite was 31 years old and lived at Altamont Place and West Lake Avenue, Roland Park. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Anita Cornthwaite, a 2-year-old daughter, Lois Jane Cornthwaite; his father, Robert Barclay Cornthwaite; a brother, Elmer B. Cornthwaite, and a sister, Mrs. Edna Lower.

This map shows where Officer Cornthwaite took his fall; today it is the Southeast District, but in 1936 it was the Northeast District (his district of assignment). If we go up the map approximately 8 miles, we'll see Altamont Place and West Lake Avenue, an indication that this happened while at work and not off duty in his own neighborhood or yard. May he continue to rest in peace as we work to keep his memory alive.

The Ultimate Sacrifice

While every fallen officer has made the ultimate sacrifice, it is important to acknowledge that not all line-of-duty deaths are the result of a heroic act that warrants a Medal of Honor. However, this does not diminish the gravity of their sacrifice. Each and every officer who has fallen in the line of duty or whose lives ended due to other circumstances in a duty-related death deserves our utmost respect and honor. It is our duty to pause, reflect, and remember these individuals as our fallen brothers and sisters. Their dedication to service and the price they paid should never be forgotten.