Police Officer Alan J. Vargo

Police Officer Alan J. Vargo | Arlington Heights Police Department, Illinois
Arlington Heights Police Department, Illinois
Police Officer Alan J. Vargo

Arlington Heights Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Sunday, July 18, 1976

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Alan J. Vargo

Police Officer Alan Vargo was struck and killed by a drunken driver while directing traffic at the scene of an accident at 2:00 am.

He was directing traffic at Arlington Heights Road and Olive Street when a drunk driver dodged a police blockade, struck Officer Vargo and dragged him 40 feet before stopping. Officer Vargo was transported to Northwest Community Hospital where he died a few hours later.

The offender later pleaded guilty to reckless homicide and served two years probation. In 1982 he was again arrested for drunk driving.

Officer Vargo had served with the Arlington Heights Police Department for two years. He was survived by his wife, mother, brothers, and sisters.

Bio

  • Age 24
  • Tour 2 years
  • Badge 162

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicular assault
  • Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
  • Offender Probation served

accident scene, directing traffic, drunk driver

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Al, I just wanted to let you know that your sacrifice will never be forgotten. You will always be a hero in my eyes. I have etched your name several times at the Law a Enforcement Wall in Washington, DC and each visit brings back memories of our friendship going way back to high school. Both of us wanted to be cops and we each fulfilled our dreams. I often wonder why you were taken way too soon and I was able to serve as long as I have in the job we both loved. I guess some questions will always go unanswered but I have always honored your memory and legacy each and every day of my career. Until we meet again, my friend. Rest in peace

Chief Michael Geier
Albuquerque Police Department

July 5, 2020

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