Police Officer Stephen Edward Sawka, Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

Police Officer Stephen Edward Sawka

Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Saturday, June 18, 1983

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Stephen Edward Sawka

Officer Stephen Sawka suffered a fatal heart attack following a struggle with a suspect at York Street and Sepviva Street, in which he and his partner suffered minor injuries.

After arresting the suspect, Officer Sawka drove his partner to the police administration building to photograph his injuries. As Officer Sawka waited outside, he began to suffer chest pains. He drove himself to a local hospital, where he died.

Officer Sawka had served with the Philadelphia Police Department for 3 years. He was survived by his wife and son.

Bio

Age 27
Tour 3 years
Badge 3790

Incident Details

Cause Heart attack

arrest attempt, struggle

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God of Justice, I am grateful for the lives and sacrifices of all America’s Peace Officers. They died serving us. Help us never forget. Help us celebrate their lives and honor their sacrifices. Be with the families of these fallen peace officers. Comfort them and give them Your strength and peace. Guide us as we seek to take care of the families of these fallen heroes. May we care for them with integrity. In commemorating the deaths of these fallen heroes, help us also to remember that death is not the end. Death does not have the final say, but is simply the transition from this earthly life to the heavenly life yet to come. This assurance was guaranteed to all believers upon the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. We look forward to that life to come with joy and anticipation. Thank You, Lord God, for hearing this prayer. In the mighty and holy name of Christ Jesus, Your dear Son, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scripture References:

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” [Psalm 23:4 ESV]

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” [John 3:16 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, NACM
Ordained NACM Minister
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers - USA

Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)

June 18, 2025