Patrolman Robert J. Strugala, Chicago Police Department, Illinois

Patrolman Robert J. Strugala

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Sunday, June 16, 1974

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Robert J. Strugala

Patrolman Robert J. Strugala was killed, and his partner was seriously wounded in a gun battle at 3157 W. 26th Street.

He and his partner were stopped at a red light at 26th and Kedzie when they heard gunfire. Both officers drew their revolvers and rushed into the establishment. Patrolman Strugala entered through the front door and his partner through the side entrance.

Patrolman Strugala’s partner ordered the gunman to drop his weapon, but the man turned towards him, holding a gun. The officer fired once, striking the man in the shoulder. Simultaneously, gunfire erupted from across the room. Patrolman Strugala was killed, and his partner was hit in the leg, arm, and abdomen. The force of the bullets from the .38 automatic knocked the second officer out of the entrance and into the street. Two tactical officers on patrol saw the events unfold and rushed to their aid.

His partner made a full recovery and returned to duty, retiring after 34 years of service on June 15th, 2004.

On July 19th, 2004, the Illinois Parole Board released Patrolman Strugala's killer from custody after serving only 30 years of his 100-year sentence.

Patrolman Robert Strugala was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and was assigned to the Marquette District. He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.

Bio

Age 29
Tour 1 year
Badge 10236
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .38 caliber
Offender Paroled in 2004

shots fired call

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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 16, 2025