Police Officer Thomas A. Wodarczyk

Police Officer Thomas A. Wodarczyk

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Monday, April 8, 1974

Add to My Heroes

Thomas A. Wodarczyk

Police Officer Thomas A. Wodarczyk and Police Officer William S. Bodnar, Jr. were killed when their patrol car collided with a produce truck at the intersection of Van Buren Street and Morgan Street while they were chasing a stolen vehicle.

They began the pursuit at 5:40 a.m., westbound on Van Buren Street from State Street. Approximately three minutes later another officer called in for emergency equipment to be sent to Van Buren Street and Morgan Street. Both officers were pronounced dead a short time later.

The truck driver was northbound on Morgan Street, proceeding through the green light. His view of the oncoming squad car was partially blocked by an eight-story building on the southeast corner of the intersection. The stolen vehicle was later found abandoned.

Officer Wodarczyk had served with the Chicago Police Department for one year and was assigned to the Central District. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

  • Age 33
  • Tour 1 year
  • Badge 10530

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicle pursuit
  • Weapon Automobile
  • Offender Not available

stolen vehicle, vehicle pursuit

Most Recent Reflection

View all 15 Reflections

Thank you for your service and rest in peace always knowing that your sacrifice is one that will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

April 8, 2021

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.