Patrolman Daniel J. Smith, Essex County Police Department, New Jersey

Patrolman Daniel J. Smith

Essex County Police Department, New Jersey

End of Watch Monday, September 17, 1984

Daniel J. Smith

Patrolman Daniel Smith was shot and killed after stopping a stolen vehicle on I-280, between Center Street and Harrison Street, in East Orange. Patrolman Smith was shot in the head by a shotgun blast as he approached the vehicle.

The suspect and several accomplices were arrested and charged in connection with Patrolman Smith's murder and other related crimes. The suspect was convicted of first-degree murder, robbery, motor vehicle theft, illegal weapons possession, and sentenced to life plus 40 years in prison.

Patrolman Smith had served with the Essex County Police Department for two years. He is survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 27
Tour 2 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Sentenced to life

stolen vehicle

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Most Recent Reflection

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Danny,
I wish you hadn't made the stop so you could be with us today. I'll never understand why a good man like you had to die. It's just not right!
Rest in Peace Brother,
Mark

Mark Hanson Ptlm. (ret)
Millburn PD Academy classmate

September 16, 2016