Police Officer Robert J. Stanze, II

Robert J. Stanze, II

Officer Stanze was shot and killed while arresting a suspect wanted in a shooting of another officer.

Officer Stanze and another officer had handcuffed the suspect and placed him in the back of the cruiser. The suspect then drew a handgun he had hidden and opened fire on the officers while they were standing outside. Officer Stanze, who was wearing his bullet proof vest, was struck in the side and the round entered his torso between the two panels. The second officer returned fire, wounding the suspect.

In December, 2001 the suspect plead guilty and was sentenced to life.

Officer Stanze had served with the St. Louis Police Department for six years. He is survived by his wife, who was expectant with twins, and a child.