Bio & Incident Details
Age: 42
Tour: 15 years
Badge # 17139
Cause: Gunfire
Incident Date: 12/15/1980
Weapon: Handgun; .45 caliber
Suspect: Convicted of murder
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Officer Vitale succumbed to gunshot wounds received after he and his partner stopped two suspicious men.
Officer Vitale and his partner were on foot patrol near an area where there was call about a burglary. The officers observed two suspicious men in the area and decided to question them When they approached the men the two fled in different directions. Officer Vitale subdued one at gunpoint. Becoming concerned for his partner he holstered his weapon to use his radio. At that time the suspect pulled out a .45 caliber handgun and opened fire, fatally wounding Officer Vitale.
The suspect fled into an apartment where he was later shot and wounded by officers. He was convicted of murder and sentenced to 61 years to life in prison. He is eligible for parole in December 2041.
Officer Vitale had served with the New York City Police Department for 15 years and was survived by his wife and son. He was assigned to the 109th Precinct.
