Darien Police Department Seeks Help To Solve 41-Year-Old Cold Case

DARIEN, CT — On the 41st anniversary of the death of a Darien police officer, the Darien Police Department is asking for the public's help to solve the cold case.

On May 31, 1981, at approximately 3 a.m., officer Kenneth E. Bateman, Jr. was shot and killed while investigating a commercial burglar alarm activation at a local fast food restaurant, police said.

Bateman, 34, was a seven-year veteran of the DPD at the time of his death. Before joining the DPD, Bateman was a member of the United States Navy. He left behind his wife, Barbara, and his parents, Kenneth Sr. and Gladys Bateman.

The investigation into Bateman's death is "ongoing," police said. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Darien Police Department Detective Division at 203-662-5330.