Detroit Police Department, Michigan
End of Watch Tuesday, November 1, 1921
Add to My HeroesOtto August Balk
Officer Balk was killed in a motorcycle accident while pursuing a speeding vehicle on Boston Boulevard. During the pursuit, Officer Balk's motorcycle was struck at 12th Street by the driver of another vehicle who was attempting to get through the intersection before the chase approached him. Instead, the vehicle struck Officer Balk's motorcycle, carrying it some distance before coming to rest upon a curb.
Officer Balk was transported to Providence Hospital with multiple injuries, where he died a few hours later. The driver who hit him was arrested and charged with reckless driving.
Officer Balk had served with the Detroit Police Department for 4 years. He was survived by his wife and daughter.
Bio
- Age 31
- Tour 4 years
- Badge 1022
Incident Details
- Cause Motorcycle crash
Most Recent Reflection
View all 7 ReflectionsOfficer Balk,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Detroit.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
November 1, 2021
Recent LODD Deaths

Deputy Sheriff Antonio Aleman
Doña Ana County Sheriff's Office, NM
EOW: July 8, 2025

Officer Miguel Cano
California Highway Patrol, CA
EOW: July 2, 2025

Deputy Sheriff Devin Mason
Darlington County Sheriff's Office, SC
EOW: July 1, 2025

Detention Officer Francisco Paul Flattes
Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, NC
EOW: June 30, 2025

Police Officer Kelvin Patrick
Detroit Police Department, MI
EOW: February 6, 2025

Supervisory Special Agent Dennis M. Wagner, Jr.
United States Department of Justice - Federal Bureau of Investigation, US
EOW: March 5, 2025

Police Officer Kendall Isaiah Corder
Milwaukee Police Department, WI
EOW: June 29, 2025

Undersheriff Brandon Gaede
Phillips County Sheriff's Office, KS
EOW: June 27, 2025

Sergeant Shiou Deng
Los Angeles Police Department, CA
EOW: June 23, 2025