Patrolman Frederick D. Vacha

Frederick D. Vacha

Patrolman Frederick Vacha was shot and killed as he and his partner patrolled a high-crime area as part of the Impact Task Force.

The two officers observed a man acting suspiciously and pulled up alongside him. As Patrolman Vacha called out to the man, the suspect immediately opened fire with a 9mm handgun. One of the rounds struck Patrolman Vacha in the head, killing him instantly. The other officer was struck in the leg and wounded.

The suspect was arrested a short time later. He was sentenced to two life sentences for Patrolman Vacha's death. in 2013, he was denied parole. His next parole hearing will be in April of 2023.

Patrolman Vacha had served with the Cleveland Division of Police for three years. He was survived by his wife, two children, parent, and three brothers.