Irvington Police Department, New Jersey
End of Watch: Thursday, February 27, 1969
Age: 23
Tour of Duty: 3 years
Badge Number: 71
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: February 27, 1969
Weapon Used: Handgun; .32 caliber
Suspect Info: Deceased
Patrolman Otto Roberto was shot and killed at the intersection of Avon Avenue and 20th Street while attempting to arrest two armed suspects who had just robbed a diner.
As he searched one of the men the other man grabbed him, spun him around, and shot him three times with a .32 caliber handgun. Despite being mortally wounded, Patrolman Roberto chased both men approximately one block before collapsing.
He was transported to a local hospital where he died that night.
Both men were apprehended and sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. One of the men died in prison and the other was paroled after serving 25 years.
Patrolman Roberto had served with the Irvington Police Department for three years. He was survived by his wife and infant son.