Patrolman Charles F. Roof, Tonawanda City Police Department, New York

Patrolman Charles F. Roof

Tonawanda City Police Department, New York

End of Watch Friday, July 28, 1950

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Charles F. Roof

Patrolman Charles Roof died of injuries he suffered three days earlier when he lost control of his motorcycle and struck a tree as he chased a speeding motorist.

While traveling on Delaware Avenue around 4:30 p.m., he swerved to avoid hitting a bicyclist who was crossing the street. He struck one of the bicycle tires and flew off his motorcycle, hitting a tree. Patrolman Roof was transported to De Graff Memorial Hospital, where he died from a fractured skull.

The bicyclist suffered from minor bruises.

Patrolman Roof was a United States Army WWII veteran and had served with the Tonawanda City Police Department for over three years. He previously served with the Pennsylvania State Highway Patrol. He was survived by his wife and daughter.

Bio

Age 37
Tour 3 years, 10 months
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Motorcycle crash
Incident Date Tuesday, July 25, 1950

motor officer, motorcycle, motorcycle crash, traffic patrol

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Most Recent Reflection

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Patrolman Roof,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Tonawanda. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

July 28, 2025