East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut
End of Watch Saturday, January 23, 1999
Add to My HeroesBrian A. Aselton
Patrolman Brian Aselton was shot and killed after responding to a noise complaint in an apartment building. After he and his backup officer checked the outside of the building but did not find any violations. The backup officer cleared the scene and Patrolman Aselton went inside to make contact with the complainant on the second floor. While making his way to the apartment he observed a male, covered in blood, exit another apartment.
Patrolman Aselton grabbed the subject who began to struggle. During the struggle the man produced a handgun that he had just stolen from the apartment and fired over his shoulder, striking Patrolman Aselton in the forehead. The suspect and a female subject then fled the scene.
The two along with another man had been involved in a home invasion robbery in which the tenant had been bound and severely beaten. Patrolman Aselton's interruption of the robbery is credited with saving the victim's life.
The male suspect who shot Patrolman Aselton was arrested three days later after a patrolman received a tip during a routine traffic stop. Three other suspects were also arrested a short time later and charged in connection with his murder. The shooter was charged with capital murder.
On February 8, 2003, the shooter was convicted of murder and sentenced to life without parole. His accomplice was convicted of felony murder and sentenced to 42 years. His female companion was sentenced to 14 years. A fourth suspect who drove the others to and from the scene was sentenced to 20 years.
Patrolman Aselton had served with the agency for 2 years. He was survived by his parents, brother and twin sister.
Patrolman Aselton's cousin, Patrolman Michael Aselton, of the Barnstable, Massachusetts, Police Department, was killed in the line of duty on March 29, 1983, during a vehicle pursuit.
Bio
- Age 26
- Tour 2 years
- Badge 251
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 115 ReflectionsAnother year. Wow. You are still sorely missed and you are so loved. We all miss you. Love you much. Mom and Tom
Carol Aselton Benoit
Mother
January 21, 2021
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