Circumstances of Death
Prohibition Agents Lawrence Mommer, James Scanlon, Herman Finch, A. L. Allen, and Thomas Scott were patrolling the highways for rum-runners around Fort Wayne, IN. At about 12:45 a.m., on Maysville Road, outside of Fort Wayne, the agents began a pursuit of a "Reo Speed Wagon," which they suspected was loaded with whiskey. The suspect driver had been ordered to stop and the two vehicles were driving side by side at about 10 mph. Agent Mommer stepped to the running board of the Government vehicle. While attempting to board the suspect vehicle, he slipped and was crushed by its rear wheel. Agent Mommer was rushed to the local hospital, but passed away that same morning.
Background
Agent Mommer joined the Bureau of Prohibition on November 30, 1928, with an annual salary of $2,300.
Personal
Agent Mommer was born in Indiana. He was survived by his wife, Edith; and two children, Sumner and Marjorie.
Associate Artifacts
