On November 24, 1917, a devastating bombing in Milwaukee resulted in the death of nine members of the Milwaukee Police Department, making it one of the deadliest single events for police officers in U.S. history prior to the September 11 attacks. This incident unfolded during a period marked by significant social upheaval and labor unrest, amid the backdrop of World War I. The city had been experiencing tensions involving labor strikes and protests, as workers were demanding better conditions and pay amid wartime inflation and shortages.

As police officers responded to reports of a suspicious package, they were met with a powerful explosion when the bomb detonated. The explosion occurred around the time when patriotism was rising along with public support for the war effort, but it also showcased the undercurrents of domestic conflict. The investigation into the bombing revealed connections to various labor movements and highlighted the growing animosity between law enforcement and labor activists.

The incident galvanized the community, prompting discussions about law enforcement, public safety, and the lengths to which certain factions would go to express their dissent. News of the bombing spread rapidly, drawing national attention and leading to stricter security measures in other cities as authorities sought to prevent similar tragedies. Over time, this incident would be remembered as a dark chapter in law enforcement history, underscoring the volatility of the era.