Trooper First Class Charles Straining Rathell, Maryland State Police, Maryland

Trooper First Class Charles Straining Rathell

Maryland State Police, Maryland

End of Watch Tuesday, September 18, 1973

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Charles Straining Rathell

Trooper First Class Charles Rathell and Trooper First Class Donald Parkerson were killed when their Bell Jet Ranger helicopter crashed near the intersection of Muirkirk Road and Route 1.

They were attempting an emergency landing after an engine failure at 5:15 p.m.

Trooper Rathell was a United States Navy veteran and had served with the Maryland State Police for almost six years. He was survived by his wife, parents, and sister.

Bio

Age 27
Tour 6 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Aircraft accident

helicopter crash, mechanical failure

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Most Recent Reflection

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52 years ago I was a young 23 year old Firefighter at Station 31 in Beltsville, MD. Prince George’s County. That evening was my first time responding to an incident to assist another First Responder in need. Unfortunately the experience would not be my last.
R.I.P. TFC Rathell. We have done our best to carry on. You will not be forgotten for your sacrifice and inspiration.

Firefighter A.Murray
Prince George’s County FIRE and EMS

September 18, 2025