Darien Police Mark 45th Anniversary Of Officer Death

DARIEN, CT — The Darien Police Department on Sunday marked the 45th anniversary of the death of officer Kenneth E. Bateman Jr.

Bateman was killed on May 31, 1981, while responding to a commercial burglar alarm in Darien.

"A seven-year veteran of the Darien Police Department and proud United States Navy veteran, Officer Bateman was 34 years old. We honor his service, sacrifice, and memory," police posted to social media.

Bateman responded to a reported break-in at a restaurant near the Norwalk city line at approximately 3 a.m. on May 31, 1981.

While waiting for backup, Bateman encountered a suspect fleeing the scene, and a shootout ensued, according to police.

Bateman was wounded and later died from his injuries. No arrests have been made.

In April 2025, DPD offered a $50,000 award for information leading to the identification and recovery of the gun used in the unsolved killing.