Police Officer Lauretha Arnetha Vaird, Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

Police Officer Lauretha Arnetha Vaird

Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Tuesday, January 2, 1996

Lauretha Arnetha Vaird

Police Officer Lauretha Vaird was shot and killed while responding to a bank robbery in the 4700 block of Rising Sun Avenue.

She was the first officer to arrive at the scene and was shot as she entered the bank. Two suspects were arrested a short time later. A third suspect was arrested several days later during a traffic stop in Maryland.

On November 1st, 1996, the suspect who shot Officer Vaird was sentenced to death.

Officer Vaird had served with the Philadelphia Police Department for nine years and was assigned to the 25th District. Officer Vaird is survived by her two sons.

Bio

Age 43
Tour 9 years
Badge 5897

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .380 caliber
Offender Sentenced to death

bank robbery

Most Recent Reflection

View all 87 Reflections

Its 2017 and again I have thoughts of the day Officer Vaird lost her life. I am retired now as many of us who worked with Laurie have moved on to new lives. I too am moving on and putting the past behind me. God Bless You Lauretha Vaird, I will never forget you and the sacrifice you made to the people of Philadelphia. I have ended my service and look back with mixed memories but I will always remember you.

Retired Det Anne Marie Cleary #860
Philadelphia Police Dept.

January 9, 2017