Los Angeles Police Department, California
End of Watch Monday, October 25, 1971
Add to My HeroesPhillip J. Riley
Officer Phillip Riley was shot and killed by a man who grabbed his service revolver following a high speed chase in Venice. He was shot twice in the chest after cornering the suspect on the rocks of the Marina del Rey breakwater. The suspect was arrested after a second high speed pursuit and a shootout in which he was wounded.
The suspect was an inmate out on a 72 hour pass to look for a job from the Institution of Men at Chino. He was convicted of murder and sentenced to 15 years to life on May 3, 1973.
Officer Riley served with the Los Angeles Police Department for three years and was survived by his wife.
Bio
- Age 26
- Tour 3 years
- Badge 14745
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Officer's handgun
- Offender Sentenced to 15 years to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 23 ReflectionsHey Riles. It’s Cima. We met in the 8th grade. We got into a scuffle at school and we were both sent to the vice principal’s office. While we were waiting, you extended you hand and said “My name is Phil Riley. I’m from Aurora, Colorado.” I shook your hand and I said I was Randy Cima, and we became best friends after that. You always called me “Cima,” and so did you mom and dad and little brother. I always called you Riles. You were my best man at my wedding.
Way back then you wanted to be a pilot. You read books, studied, took tests, and you got your license. You were an ex-Marine by then, you liked the military, you respected law and order, and you thought about becoming a policeman for awhile. You did. About a year after you were on the force I remember you telling me you couldn’t wait get up in the morning to put on your uniform. You didn’t want to be a pilot anymore. You wanted to be a policeman. You said you loved being a cop. Me and the rest of your buddies figured you’d be Chief of Police some day. We knew you were smart, dedicated, and honest. Then came that day 50 years ago today.
I saw Nancy at our 50th high school reunion. We talked about you. You met Nancy in the 8th grade too. You two were together through high school until you got married. You had just put a down payment on a new home in Orange county. You loved kids. We all figured the two of you would have a bunch of them. Then came that day 50 years ago today.
I never forgot you Riles. This is the 50th October 25th, and I remember every one of them. I still see a few of the guys that are left from those days. They never forgot you either. We've all missed you for a long time. Love you pal.
Randy Cima
Best friend
Best Friend
October 25, 2021
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