Probationary Officer Kraeger was shot and killed at the Cox and Gordon Packing Company while attempting to arrest an infuriated fireman, George Rodgers, on warrants for discharging a firearm. Officer Kraeger had gone to the man's workplace and was speaking to the superintendent there when he observed Rodgers approaching. He ordered Rodgers to stop but he did not obey and walked into a storeroom. When Officer Kraeger followed the Rodgers into the room, Rodgers fired three shots, striking Officer Kraeger in the head. When officers arrested Rodgers at his home he attempted to draw a 38-40 caliber Colt from his trousers. The gun was identified as the murder weapon used to kill Officer Kraeger. Rodgers was sentenced to life in prison.

Officer Kraeger was survived by his wife and two children. His father Charles Kraeger, who died in 1903, also served as a St. Louis police officer.

The suspect was arrested and sentenced to life in prison.

Officer Kraeger was survived by his wife and two children. Interred: New Marcus Cemetery.