Toledo Police Department, Ohio
End of Watch: Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Age: 35
Tour of Duty: 14 years
Badge Number: 812
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: February 21, 2007
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Sentenced to 18 years to life
Detective Keith Dressel was shot and killed when he and another detective interrupted a drug deal on Ontario Street, near Bush Street, at approximately 2:00 am.
One of the suspects fled on foot when the detectives exited their vehicle and identified themselves. Detective Dressel chased that suspect as the other detective took the second suspect into custody.
The juvenile suspect opened fire on Detective Dressel during the foot pursuit, striking him once in the chest. Despite being mortally wounded, Detective Dressel was able to return fire, but did not strike the shooter. The 15-year-old boy was taken into custody later in the day after agreeing to turn himself into his probation officer.
On November 30th, 2007, the suspect was convicted of murder and sentenced to 18 years to life. He will be eligible for parole on February 15, 2025.
Detective Dressel had served with the Toledo Police Department for 14 years and was assigned to the Vice / Narcotics Bureau. He is survived by his wife, two children, parents, brother, and sister.