Private John E. Fessler

Private John E. Fessler

Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Friday, April 23, 1937

Add to My Heroes

John E. Fessler

Private Fessler was shot and killed while assisting Montour County deputies arrest a drunken man who had been terrorizing his family. As they approached the home the man opened fire, wounding Private Fessler. The deputies returned fire, wounding the suspect. Private Fessler succumbed to his wounds the following day.

The 51-year-old suspect was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to death. On February 23, 1940, the day before he was to be executed, he shot and killed himself in the Montour County Jail. The sheriff said eight members of his family had visited him earlier and he suspected that one of them slipped him the .32 caliber pistol.

Private Fessler had been with the agency for four years.

Bio

  • Age 32
  • Tour 4 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Thursday, April 22, 1937
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Committed suicide

Most Recent Reflection

View all 8 Reflections

Rest in peace always knowing that no passage of time can ever erase your service and sacrifice.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

April 23, 2021

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.