Abington Township Police Department, Pennsylvania
End of Watch Wednesday, June 29, 1949
Add to My HeroesThomas J. Mathews
Police Officer Thomas Mathews was shot and killed while investigating a suspicious truck near Rydal he and his partner had seen leaving a large estate of a prominent citizen.
The driver of the truck fled with Officer Mathews in pursuit. His partner heard several gunshots moments later. Officer Mathews' body was located near a hedge approximately one hour later.
Investigation revealed that the subject had just committed a burglary at the estate. The man was apprehended in Lynchburg, Virginia, returned to Pennsylvania, and sentenced to death. He was subsequently executed on May 18, 1953.
Officer Mathews was a U.S. Army veteran of WWII and had served with the Abington Township Police Department for four years. He was survived by his wife and son.
Bio
- Age 32
- Tour 4 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Executed in 1953
Most Recent Reflection
View all 37 ReflectionsDad,
Yet another year has passed, your family still mourns your loss after 73 years. Rest in peace dad.
Michael, Donna and the entire Mathews Family
Michael P Mathews
Son
Michael Mathews, Son
Son
February 6, 2024
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