Sergeant John Sturdy was on foot patrol on Second Street near Cedar when he was attacked and severely beaten, struck with clubs around the head and face, by two men who were friends of a man he had just arrested. Officer Sturdy's partner was also injured but to a lesser degree and recovered. After receiving medical treatment he was taken home with the hope of recovery. He died from his injuries at home on April 10, 1863.

Officer Sturdy joined the department in 1856, serving for seven years. He witnessed the formation of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department in 1861. He was promoted to sergeant in 1863. He was the first officer to die in the line of duty after the formation of the St Louis Metropolitan Police Department. He was survived by a wife, Isabella, and three small children. Interred: Sturdy Cemetery, Crestwood, MO.