Patrolman Francis Smolka

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

Vermilion Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Sunday, October 29, 1978

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Francis Smolka

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 performed CPR at the station and while en route 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.

Bio

  • Age 24
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge 9

Incident Details

  • Cause Heart attack

disturbance

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Uncle Francis—- so many years have passed and every time the world looses a law enforcement officer I think of you. Your brother (Rich) and my Dad survived the force and federal law enforcement. Still a cop at heart though even at 85 years young. Thanks for watching over all of us!

Janet Szymanksi Tobin
Neice

February 4, 2022

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