Detective John Apanites Jr.
Cleveland Police Department
Ohio
End of Watch: Monday, April 7, 1969

Biographical Info
Age: 27
Tour of Duty: 2 years
Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Monday, April 7, 1969
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Sentenced to death

Detective Apanites was shot and killed as he and another officer questioned two shoplifting suspects at a local clothing store. As the officers waited for a patrol car to arrive a struggle ensued between the officers and the male suspect. The suspect and the officers exchanged gunshots and all three were wounded. The suspect fled to a city bus where he was arrested by a patrolman.

Detective Apanites died at the scene and his partner was seriously wounded.

The suspect was sentenced to death for Detective Apanites' murder.

Detective Apanites was a US Marine Corps veteran and had served with the Cleveland Police Department for 18 months and had previously served with the FBI for 6 months. He was survived by his wife, son, daughter, and father.