Akron Police Department, Ohio
End of Watch: Friday, March 3, 1933
Age: 29
Tour of Duty: 7 years, 9 months
Badge Number: 154
Cause of Death: Motorcycle crash
Date of Incident: March 3, 1933
Weapon Used: Automobile; Alcohol involved
Suspect Info: Acquitted
Officer Kenneth Knepp was killed in a motorcycle crash on North Howard and Frederick Streets in Akron.
He was on a detail to the highway patrol when a truck turned in front of him. Officer Knepp was unable to stop and collided with the back of the truck. Other officers were following behind him and were able to pull him out of the burning wreckage. He succumbed to his injuries as soon as he arrived at St. Thomas Hospital.
The driver admitted to having a drink before driving home. He was charged with manslaughter, but was acquitted.
Officer Knepp had served with the Akron Police Department for almost eight years. He was survived by his wife, son, parents, two brothers, and three sisters.