Officer Eric A. Zelms

Officer Eric A. Zelms | San Francisco Police Department, California
San Francisco Police Department, California
Officer Eric A. Zelms

San Francisco Police Department, California

End of Watch Thursday, January 1, 1970

Add to My Heroes

Eric A. Zelms

Officer Eric Zelms was shot and killed while investigating a burglary at 132 Jones Street in San Francisco while on foot patrol at approximately 2:00 a.m.

He was surprised by two burglars, who attacked him and were able to gain control of his .357 caliber service revolver. The men then shot him with it and attempted to flee.

The subject then encountered two other officers and exchanged shots. One of the men was wounded. Both were apprehended, convicted of the murder, and subsequently sentenced to eight to 10 years.

Officer Zelms had served with the San Francisco Police Department for less than one year. He was survived by his wife and one child.

Bio

  • Age 22
  • Tour 11 months
  • Badge 1348

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Officer's handgun
  • Offender Both sentenced 8 - 10 years

foot patrol, robbery attempt

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 38 Reflections

Eric was a good fellow. He was a sharp guy. He was a great young Police Officer. Eric was my partner that tragic night...a night I have never forgotten.

I miss him and pray that his wife and family are well. It's difficult for me at my age to attend and see the loss of our men in blue...simply due to the stupidity, political ignorance, profit taking from corruption in our Beautiful America...let up not cave in to Criminal Socialistic self-serving Communistic process infiltrating America since the late 50's..

Having lost three partners during my 16 years in the SFPD, I have also lost count of our heroes throughout our Country in their quest for honesty justice and a great America and their ultimate sacrifice made for the protection of all people of all color and all Americans.

We pray for a return to the days when America is Great Again.

THINK and Vote America.

Richard Bodisco, retired SFPD
Retired - Disabled in the line of duty.

March 30, 2024

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.

Recent LODD Deaths