Officer Richard Bird was involved in an accident while pursuing a car on his motorcycle.

On June 18, 1969, Officer Richard Bird was involved in an accident while pursuing a speeding car on his motorcycle near 87th and Troost. Officer Bird struck the left front fender of a car that turned in front of him to enter Lakeside Hospital, 8701 Troost. He died on July 4, 1969 at Baptist Memorial Hospital from brain injuries sustained in the accident.

Patrolman Bird was survived by his wife and three children. Interred: Floral Hills Cemetery, KCMO.