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Patrolman Francis Smolka | Vermilion Police Department, Ohio Vermilion Police Department, Ohio

Patrolman

Francis Smolka

Vermilion Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch: Sunday, October 29, 1978

Bio & Incident Details

Age: 24

Tour: Not available

Badge # 9

Cause: Heart attack

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Patrolman Francis Smolka suffered a fatal heart attack shortly after arresting a suspect who had resisted arrest.

Patrolman Smolka, along with two fellow officers answered a disturbance call which involved a physical altercation with a male who resisted arrest. Upon returning to the station, Patrolman Smolka collapsed. Three Officers preformed CPR at the station and while enroute to Lorain Community Hospital. Despite attempts by hospital staff, he was pronounced dead at 2:15 A.M.

Patrolman Smolka was survived by his wife, two brothers, and sister.

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Frank and I had some classes together at Lorain County Community College in Elyria, Ohio. What a shock when we learned he passed away. He was a quiet easy going guy, fun to be around. Sorry I didn't have a chance to know him better.

Patrolman Bryan Waltz (Retired))
Avon Lake PD, Ohio
June 15, 2017

 

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