Patrol Officer Joseph John O'Shura

Patrol Officer Joseph John O'Shura

Harrisburg Police Bureau, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Saturday, July 20, 1963

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Joseph John O'Shura

Patrol Officers Joseph O'Shura and Barry Karper were killed in an automobile crash at the end of a three-mile-long pursuit while chasing a stolen vehicle shortly after 1:30 am.

Both officers spotted a vehicle that was reported stolen a week earlier in the area of Market Street and immediately gave chase. As both officers were following behind the stolen vehicle, the driver hit his brakes at a high rate of speed while attempting to make a right turn onto Division Street, losing control of the vehicle and striking a group of trees. Officer O'Shura, who was driving, swerved left to avoid striking the auto and struck the same group of trees.

The driver of the stolen vehicle and both officers were pronounced dead at the scene.

Officer O'Shura was a U.S. Army veteran and served with the Harrisburg Police Bureau for two months. He was survived by both of his parents and brother. His brother also served with the Harrisburg Police Bureau.

Bio

  • Age 22
  • Tour 2 months
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicle pursuit
  • Weapon Automobile
  • Offender Died at the scene

stolen vehicle, vehicle crash, vehicle pursuit

Most Recent Reflection

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Officer O’Shura,
On today, the 60th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

July 20, 2023

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