Detective Donald Rolker

Donald Rolker

Detective Donald Rolker was shot and killed while off duty by four men who tried to rob him on a subway train in Brooklyn. He managed to return fire hitting one of the suspects in the leg. The four, who fled into the street after the shooting, shot and critically wounded a cab driver who resisted their efforts to commandeer his taxi. The shot attracted several officers who arrested the wounded suspect near the scene. The other three were apprehended a few hours later.

Three of the suspects, ages 17,18, and 19, were convicted of felony murder. One was released from prison in 1983. The other two were released in 1984.

Detective Rolker was assigned to the 18th Detective Squad, now known as the Midtown North Squad. The Midtown North Squad room has been dedicated in his honor.