Sergeant James L. Severin

Sergeant James L. Severin | Chicago Police Department, Illinois
Chicago Police Department, Illinois
Sergeant James L. Severin

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Friday, July 17, 1970

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James L. Severin

Sergeant James L. Severin and Patrolman Tony Rizzato were shot and killed by gang members while patrolling community housing for an all-volunteer "Walk and Talk" project.

As the officers proceeded across the Seward Park baseball field, the assailants opened fire from an apartment window. Both officers were mortally wounded in the attack.

The purpose of the shooting was to seal a pact between two rival gangs. Three adults and one juvenile were later apprehended and charged with murder. The two shooters, ages 17 and 23, were convicted of murder and sentenced to 100 to 199 years in prison. As of September 3, 2020, both were in prison.

Bio

  • Age 38
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge 1319

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Rifle
  • Offender 100-199 years in prison

ambush, gang member, juvenile offender, sniper

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Thanks for always looking out for me when I was a Chicago Police Cadet at Area 6 Task Force in 1970. I've thought of you and Tony often over the years. You will never be forgotten.

Deputy Chief Patrick Pender - Retired
Mundelein Police Department

February 28, 2021

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