Officer Henry Fahle died after contracting rabies as a result of a rabid dog bite while on his beat.

On September 24, 1888, Officer Fahle was was sent to the house of a Mr. Clobus on Natural Bridge Road to serve an official notice. He served the notice but as he turned to leave he was bitten on the right leg by a large dog. The original wound did not cause pain but he was ill for about six weeks. He was ill for about six weeks and on December 25, 1888, his leg began to swell and caused great pain. He was admitted to a local hospital where he died two days later.

Officer Fahle had served with the St. Louis Police Department for 14 years and was assigned to the 4th District. He was survived by his wife and four children.