Deputy Sheriff I Ralph Edward Zylka, Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office, Wisconsin

Deputy Sheriff I Ralph Edward Zylka

Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office, Wisconsin

End of Watch Thursday, August 17, 2000

Ralph Edward Zylka

Deputy Zylka and Deputy Sung Hui Bang were killed in a helicopter accident in Dodge County, Wisconsin,while assisting in the search of a suspect.

Their helicopter experienced mechanical problems and crashed while returning to Milwaukee County. The deputies performed an instrumental role in apprehending the suspect, who was wanted for murdering an off-duty police officer. The helicopter was a 20-year-old military surplus aircraft.

Deputy Zylka, the flight observer, had been employed with the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department for 24 years.

Deputy Zylka was survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

Age 48
Tour 24 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Aircraft accident

Most Recent Reflection

View all 17 Reflections

Deputy Sheriff Zylka,
On today, the 17th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you to you and your Partner for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Milwaukee County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

August 17, 2017