Police Officer John Stuart Trettin

Police Officer John Stuart Trettin

Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Sunday, February 29, 1976

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John Stuart Trettin

Police Officer John Trettin was shot and fatally wounded by a bullet fired from the roof of a housing project at 25th and Jackson Streets as he and several officers investigated a report of shots being fired.

He died four days later from a gunshot wound to the head. A 15-year-old youth was arrested the next day and charged with murder.

The suspect, who told police, "I just wanted to kill a cop," was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life on September 21st, 1976. In September 2017, the subject was resentenced to 44 years to life in prison, making him eligible for parole, following a United States Supreme Court ruling prohibiting mandatory life sentences for juvenile offenders.

Officer Trettin was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War and had served with the Philadelphia Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife and three young children.

Bio

  • Age 29
  • Tour 5 years
  • Badge 4623
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Wednesday, February 25, 1976
  • Weapon Rifle
  • Offender Sentenced to 44 years

ambush, shooting call, shots fired call, sniper

Most Recent Reflection

View all 41 Reflections

I think of you often John. I still remember double dating when we went to SPHS - you, Carol, GeeGee and I. I remember seeing you at the swim club after you returned from Vietnam. You are greatly missed.

Dawn Cox Gambone
High school friend

June 28, 2024

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