Tuscon Police Department

The History of the Tucson Police Department Motorcycle Unit

The Tucson Police Department Motor Unit dates back to at least 1917.

The Tucson Police Department has lost 2 motors in the line of duty over the years, but none very recently. Currently Tucson PD has 45 motors in the unit. Our bikes are a mix of Kawasaki KZ 1000’s and Harley FLHTP’s.

Officer Robert Cummins

Officer Robert Cummins – September 7, 1936 Officer Cummins had traveled to Phoenix with a group of Tucson motorcycle officers to escort an American Legion convention parade. As he was beginning his return to Tucson, his motorcycle skidded on loose gravel at the intersection of Van Buren and 16th Street. He sustained a skull fracture and died three days later.

Officer James Smith

Officer James Smith – October 28, 1980 

Officer Smith was responding to a motor vehicle collision with injuries in the vicinity of Speedway Boulevard and Plumer Avenue when a motorist grazed the rear of his motorcycle. Officer Smith’s motorcycle was thrown into the opposing lane of traffic, where he was struck head-on. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Information and Photos provided by Tucson, AZ Police Department