CORNELIUS, NC — An officer who died 75 years ago while on duty is now being recognized for his service. Officer Ralph Alcorn White died on December 31, 1942 while serving as a police officer in the Town of Cornelius.
According to reports, White was electrocuted while attempting to restore power that was knocked out during a storm. Officials say during the early 1940’s, Cornelius was still a small mill town and it was not uncommon for on duty officers to have other Town duties during a shift, including things like collecting garbage and checking water or power sources.
Officer White was reportedly checking the transmission box at Catawba Avenue and Statesville Avenue, modern day Main Street, when the accident occurred.
Officials say White was unaware that the Town had cut a line supplying power to a large water pump, which provided water to the mill, and left several lines bare.
White, who also worked as an electrician, was electrocuted to death at the age of 40.
Thanks to the work and research by local Detectives Sergeant Tracy Crosby, Corporal Dan Waltman, Brad Nichols, and Gina Patterson, Officer White is being recognized by the NC Department of Justice roster of fallen officers. He has also been added to the National Officer Down Memorial Page, which is a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring America’s fallen law enforcement heroes.
White is currently survived by his now 87-year-old daughter, Betty Moore, of Mooresville.
