Police To Host Memorial For Princeton Officer Who Died Rescuing 2 Boys In 1955

PRINCETON, NJ – On Friday, the Princeton Police Department will be hosting a memorial ceremony for Officer Billie D. Ellis who died in 1955 while saving two boys.

Ellis was a patrol officer in Princeton. On Aug. 19, 1955, Ellis was off duty when he responded to Carnegie Lake.

Hurricane Dianne had swept through the area and two young boys were on a canoe which had capsized in rough waters. Ellis immediately jumped into action, responding in his own canoe, which went overboard and drowned along with the boys.

The memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. in the Community Room at 400 Witherspoon Street.

The Ellis family will be in attendance along with local officials, members of the police department and emergency services.

Coffee and bagels will be served following the ceremony.