Cleveland Division of Police, Ohio
End of Watch: Monday, December 30, 1996
Age: 47
Tour of Duty: 8 years
Badge Number: 1939
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: December 30, 1996
Weapon Used: Rifle; Mini 14
Suspect Info: Sentenced to life
Officer Hilary Cudnik was shot and killed while making a felony traffic stop on a stolen vehicle.
As the suspect exited the vehicle he opened fire with .223 caliber rifle, striking Officer Cudnik in the neck, head, and chest several times. Backup units on the scene returned fire and severely wounded the suspect. Officers on scene immediately transported Officer Cudnik to Mount Sinai Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.
The 37-year-old suspect was convicted of murder and sentenced to life. He has his first parole hearing on December 21, 2028.
Officer Cudnik had served with the Cleveland Division of Police for eight years. He was survived by his mother and three sons.