Report of the President's Commission on the Assassination of President John F. Kennedy

Initial Transfer Public Disclosures

Beginning Saturday night, the public was kept informed of the approximate time of the Oswald transfer. At approximately 10:20 a.m., Chief Curry told a press conference that Oswald would be moved in an armored truck and gave a general description of other security precautions. Newsmen were not informed of the transfer route, and the route was not disclosed to the driver of the armored truck until it arrived at the Commerce Street exit at about 11:07 a.m. Remaining newsmen on the third floor descended to the basement, and some may have glimpsed Oswald putting on a sweater through the glass windows of Captain Fritz’ office.

Armored Truck Positioning Adjustments

Because the driver feared the truck might stall if started from the bottom of the ramp and because the overhead clearance appeared inadequate, Assistant Chief Batchelor had the truck backed only into the entranceway at the top of the ramp. Batchelor and others then inspected the inside of the truck.

Revised Transfer Plan With Decoy Truck

When Chief Curry learned the truck had arrived, he informed Captain Fritz that security controls were in effect and inquired how long the questioning of Oswald would continue. At this point, Fritz learned for the first time of the plan to convey Oswald by armored truck and immediately expressed disapproval. He urged the use of an unmarked police car driven by a police officer for better speed and maneuverability. Curry agreed to Fritz’ plan, with the armored truck to be used as a decoy. The armored truck would leave the ramp first, followed by a car containing only security officers, with the police car bearing Oswald following. After proceeding one block, the car with Oswald would turn off and proceed directly to the county jail, while the armored truck would follow a lead car to the jail along the previously agreed upon and more circuitous route.