Officer Bernard Early was shot and killed while attempting to stop a robbery in Michael Wood's Saloon at 3880 Easton Street. While Officer Early was inside of the tavern a man entered and ordered everyone to put their hands up. Officer Early attempted to strike the man with his nightstick but missed. The man then turned and shot him twice in the stomach and once in the arm. Officer Early was able to make it to a call box, summoned help and gave a description of the suspect before succumbing to his wounds. The investigation led to John Nearly, who was arrested after a search of the neighborhood. He confessed to the robbery and shooting of Officer Early.

Officer Early had been with the agency for 21 years joining the department in 1903. Interred: St Patrick's Cemetery, Catawissa, MO.