Invercargill remembers Constable Peter Murphy

Murphy was 21 at the time of his death, having graduated from Police College one year earlier. He remains the only police officer to have been killed in the line of duty in Invercargill.

Southland Police Area Commander Inspector Mike Bowman said he was proud to have been at the unveiling.

“Constable Murphy lost his life doing what our staff do every single day – keeping the public safe. It’s an amazing tribute to have his sacrifice memorialised in our city.

“It serves as a reminder for not only police officers but our whole community to acknowledge the important job police officers have and the potential risks it carries,” he said.

Among those attending the unveiling ceremony was former Constable John Cox, who was beside Murphy during the incident and had helped confirm an appropriate location for the plaque.

Cox said the memories of Murphy’s funeral and the days following his death had remained with him throughout his life.

“After a packed church service, we accompanied Peter on the flight to Wellington and were able to remain beside him at the front of the plane,” Cox said.

“At his burial in Lower Hutt, Peter was given a full guard of honour by many uniformed Police officers. I was honoured to receive the Police flag from his coffin and present it to his parents.

“Peter was a wonderful young man. He would have developed into a great policeman, but he was never given that chance. We sadly miss him.”

Campbell said he was proud to offer Council’s support to the efforts to memorialise Murphy.

“For those who remember that time, this plaque provides a place to pause and reflect. For younger generations or those who had not yet made Invercargill home, it will help tell the story of what happened here on 25 September 1976,” Campbell said.

“Unveiling the plaque today, on the 50th anniversary, is a fitting way to honour Constable Murphy and ensure he is remembered for the next 50 years and beyond.”