Patrolman John Ritter, Jr.

John Ritter, Jr.

Patrolman Ritter was shot and killed with his own service weapon after making an arrest. Another officer had arrested a drunk man who was making a disturbance. Two of the man's friends followed the officer as he walked the man to jail and continued to urge the officer to release the man.

When the suspect encountered Patrolman Ritter he explained the situation and Patrolman Ritter decided to arrest one of the other two as well. As he did so the third man lifted up Patrolman Ritter's coat, grabbed his revolver, and fired five times, fatally wounding Patrolman Ritter.

An extensive manhunt turned up both suspects. They were both convicted and served 20 years in prison.

Patrolman Ritter was survived by his wife.