Crime & Safety
Remembering West Chester Officers Killed In The Line Of Duty
In honor of National Police Week, we're remembering local officers who paid the ultimate price to keep their communities safe.
WEST CHESTER, PA — In honor of National Police Week, Patch is remembering and paying tribute to the fallen officers of our Pennsylvania towns and cities.
President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day in 1962, and the week surrounding it as National Police Week.
It was established by a joint resolution of Congress, paying recognition to those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
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West Chester's Special Policeman John Babb attempted to arrest a 16-year-old boy at the boy's home in 1909. The boy was to be taken in on an incorrigibility warrant after putting broken glass in his parents' food. The boy shot and killed Babb when he arrived.
Across Pennsylvania, 975 officers have been killed in the line of duty. A huge percentage - 425 officers - were killed by gunfire. In addition, 16 K9 officers have been killed in the line of duty.
Find out what's happening in West Chesterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Information and photo of Mathews used with permission, Officer Down Memorial Page
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