Patrolman Phillip Droesch, Lima Police Department, Ohio

Patrolman Phillip Droesch

Lima Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Friday, October 25, 1918

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Phillip Droesch

Patrolman Phillip Droesch was shot and killed following the robbery of a pawn shop.

The subject had exchanged shots with officers following the robbery but was able to escape. Patrolman Droesch was off duty but had been called in to help search for the suspect. He observed a man near Jackson Street and High Street who appeared to be staggering. Thinking the man was intoxicated and injured, Patrolman Droesch approached him to give him assistance.

The subject suddenly pulled out a gun and shot Patrolman Droesch. The officer was transported to Lima City Hospital, where he died early the next morning.

The 27-year-old suspect was apprehended and convicted of murdering Patrolman Droesch. He was committed to the Lima State Hospital for the Criminally Insane. He escaped on September 4, 1928, and again on January 7, 1945.

Patrolman Droesch was survived by his wife and four children.

Bio

Age 38
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Thursday, October 24, 1918
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Committed

off duty, officer assistance, robbery

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NEVER FORGET! On behalf of the Ohio Attorneys General Bureau of Criminal Identification & Investigation, we honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Patrolman Phillip Droesch of the Lima Police Department, Ohio and the additional 81 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.

Superintendent Joe Morbitzer
Ohio Attorney General, Bureau of Criminal Investigation

October 25, 2022