Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania
End of Watch Friday, May 23, 1975
Add to My HeroesRonald Lee Trumbette
Officer Trumbette was shot and killed while responding to a silent alarm in a warehouse. As he entered the building the suspect, who was hiding in the rafters overhead, jumped down onto him. The suspect then gained control of Officer Trumbette's weapon and shot him. Another officer critically wounded the suspect as he shot him three times.
The 26-year-old suspect, with a long criminal record, mostly burglaries, was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to death in August of 1976. His sentence was later commuted to life.
Officer Trumbette served with the Philadelphia Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife, son, and parents.
Bio
- Age 25
- Tour 5 years
- Badge 4908
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Officer's handgun
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 15 ReflectionsDear Officer Trumbette,
May your dear Family know, on this 45th year after your tragic loss -- that you are held in our hearts. And will always be remembered for your Courage, Heroism and dedication to duty. The citizens of Philadelphia lost a dear young man. Your Family's loss is beyond any sentiment we can offer. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Mary Ellen Auman
Wife & Mother of Philadelphia Police Department Officers
May 23, 2020
Recent LODD Deaths

Deputy Sheriff Caleb Conley
Scott County Sheriff's Office, KY
EOW: May 22, 2023

Sergeant Michael Kunovich
St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: May 19, 2023

Deputy Sheriff Brett Harris
Riverside County Sheriff's Department, CA
EOW: May 13, 2023

Sergeant Joshua Lee Clouse
Cameron Police Department, TX
EOW: May 11, 2023

Port Police Officer Kimberly Sickafoose
Alabama Port Authority Police, AL
EOW: May 11, 2023

Police Officer Aréanah M. Preston
Chicago Police Department, IL
EOW: May 6, 2023

Detective Jacob Beu
Rutherford County Sheriff's Office, TN
EOW: May 7, 2023

Police Officer Robert Shisler
Deptford Township Police Department, NJ
EOW: May 7, 2023

Deputy Sheriff Kaitie Leising
St. Croix County Sheriff's Office, WI
EOW: May 6, 2023