Chief of Police Robert G. Sparks

Robert G. Sparks

Chief of Police Robert Sparks was shot and killed when he and another officer attempted to take action when they were robbed while off duty.

The two were leaving a pharmacy, at the intersection of Chester Pike and Glenolden Avenue, after picking up medication for the other officer. As the two walked out of the door two suspects demanded the bag, thinking that there was money in it after mistaking Chief Sparks for the pharmacist. When the officers took action one of the suspects opened fire, fatally wounding Chief Sparks.

Both suspects were apprehended and sentenced to life.

Chief Sparks had served with the Glenolden Borough Police Department for 20 years.