Police Officer Thomas J. Mathews, Abington Township Police Department, Pennsylvania

Police Officer Thomas J. Mathews

Abington Township Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Wednesday, June 29, 1949

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Thomas J. Mathews

Police Officer Thomas Mathews was shot and killed while investigating a suspicious truck near Rydal he and his partner had seen leaving a large estate of a prominent citizen.

The driver of the truck fled with Officer Mathews in pursuit. His partner heard several gunshots moments later. Officer Mathews' body was located near a hedge approximately one hour later.

Investigation revealed that the subject had just committed a burglary at the estate. The man was apprehended in Lynchburg, Virginia, returned to Pennsylvania, and sentenced to death. He was subsequently executed on May 18, 1953.

Officer Mathews was a U.S. Army veteran of WWII and had served with the Abington Township Police Department for four years. He was survived by his wife and son.

Bio

Age 32
Tour 4 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Executed in 1953

burglary

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Most Recent Reflection

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Dad,

Another year has passed and we haven't forgotten the sacrifice that you made 76 years ago. We will light a candle for you during Mass this afternoon. I think of you daily and miss you.

Michael, Donna and your family.

Michael Mathews
Son

June 29, 2025