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Police Officer John S. Trettin | Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

Police Officer

John S. Trettin

Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch: Wednesday, March 3, 1976

Bio & Incident Details

Age: 29

Tour: 6 years

Badge # Not available

Cause: Gunfire

Incident Date: 2/29/1976

Weapon: Rifle

Suspect: Sentenced to life in prison

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Officer John Trettin was shot and fatally wounded by a bullet fired from the roof of a housing project at 25th and Jackson Streets as he and several officers investigated a report of shots being fired. He died four days later from a gunshot wound to the head. A 15 year-old youth was arrested the next day and charged with murder.

The suspect, who told police "I just wanted to kill a cop", was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life on September 21, 1976.

Officer Trettin is survived by his wife and three young children.

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Most Recent Reflection

I remember this horrible incident as a young cops son. i remember my mother crying for this officers family. I remember holding hands with our family when my dad arrived home from duty and praying for the family of Officer Trettin. Well, God answered our prayers because his Son is now my neighbor and their family is just the greatest family one could ever wish for. John Jr. your Dad would be so proud to see such a great father. Your father is a Hero, he put his life on the line to protect and serve the citizens of Philadelphia.

Alex (Son of Phila Detective)
friend/neighbor
March 27, 2012

 

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