Corporal Paul John Sweeney, New Castle County Police Department, Delaware

Corporal Paul John Sweeney

New Castle County Police Department, Delaware

End of Watch Thursday, November 30, 1972

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Paul John Sweeney

Corporal Paul Sweeney succumbed to injuries and burns received one month earlier when his patrol car was struck from behind and burst into flames.

Corporal Sweeney was driving on Concord Pike, near Independence Mall, when the accident occurred.

The 16-year-old driver of the vehicle that struck Corporal Sweeney's patrol car was charged with reckless driving but the charge was upgraded to manslaughter when the officer passed away.

Corporal Sweeney had served with the New Castle County Police Department for 4 years and was posthumously promoted to rank of of Corporal. He is survived by his wife and two children.

In 2006 the new New Castle County Police Department's new headquarters building was named in Corporal Sweeney's honor.

Bio

Age 26
Tour 4 years
Badge 41

Incident Details

Cause Automobile crash
Incident Date Friday, October 20, 1972

automobile accident

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Most Recent Reflection

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Cpl. Sweeney,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of New Castle. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

November 30, 2022