Ray, Officer Charles Ed

Officer Charles Ed Ray died on December 31, 1906, after suffering fatal injuries while attempting to arrest a suspect on Hewitt Avenue in Everett, Washington.

On the evening of December 31, 1906, Officer Ray was working as a patrolman when he attempted to make an arrest of William Marcks. During the attempted arrest, which may have involved another individual, a struggle ensued between Officer Ray and Marcks. Witnesses reported that Officer Ray was struck in the head during the confrontation, causing him to collapse onto the sidewalk. Once on the ground, Officer Ray was reportedly kicked twice by Marcks. It does not appear Officer Ray was conscious after the initial strike, and he was pronounced dead on scene within minutes. Marcks was taken into custody and charged with murder in the first degree. Contemporary reports indicate he was later held for trial in Snohomish County Superior Court.

Officer Ray was 47 years old at the time of his death and had recently joined the Everett Police Department. Newspaper accounts from 1906 note that he had been added to the force alongside two other patrolmen as the city expanded its police presence. Though his tenure with the department was brief, his actions on the night of his death reportedly reflected his commitment to upholding the law and maintaining order in the growing community of Everett.

Though little is known about him outside of his duties as a patrolman, Charles was a family man. At the time of his death, he was married and the father of a young daughter. Historical records reflect that his wife, Lola, and their daughter survived him. His passing appears to have affected his family and the Everett community, where many fellow officers and city residents gathered to honor his service. His funeral was attended by members of the police department and local fraternal organizations, reflecting the clear respect held for him at the time.

Officer Charles Ed Ray was survived by his wife and young daughter.