Fallen Heroes
Patrolman Michael Draeger died on December 28, 1974, from injuries sustained in an automobile crash on November 18, 1974.
Patrolman Draeger was responding to a call for assistance from another officer when the police ambulance he was driving collided with a squad car at N. 8th Street and W. Center Street. The gas tank of the ambulance burst into flames when it was struck from the rear by the squad car. Patrolman Draeger freed himself from the vehicle, but his gasoline-soaked clothes caught fire.
Patrolman Draeger was rushed to the burn center at St. Mary’s Hospital with third-degree burns over 75% of his body. His partner and two police officers in the squad car received minor injuries.
Patrolman Draeger was 26 years old and had served with the Milwaukee Police Department for five years. He was married with two children.