Reading Police Department, Ohio
End of Watch Tuesday, May 29, 1945
Add to My HeroesWillard H. Santel
Patrolman Willard Santel succumbed to injuries he received when he lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into a retaining wall while testing a new motorcycle on Old Wright Highway (now Interstate I-75) in Lockland on May 8, 1945.
Suffering from a compound fracture of the tibia and fibula, he was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital. While hospitalized, he developed bilateral pneumonia and died on May 29, 1945.
Patrolman Santel had served with the Reading Police Department for 1 1/2 years. He was survived by his expectant wife, who later gave birth to their daughter.
Bio
- Age 23
- Tour 1 year, 6 months
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Vehicle pursuit
- Incident Date Tuesday, May 8, 1945
- Weapon Not available
- Offender Not available
Most Recent Reflection
View all 12 ReflectionsPatrolman Santel,
On today, the 80th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Reading. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired
May 29, 2025
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