Patrol Officer James Gatzounas

Patrol Officer James Gatzounas | Holyoke Police Department, Massachusetts
Holyoke Police Department, Massachusetts
Patrol Officer James Gatzounas

Holyoke Police Department, Massachusetts

End of Watch Saturday, January 1, 1977

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James Gatzounas

Officer James Gatzounas died after being assaulted as he and other officers responded to a fight at a New Year's Eve street party. As Officer Gatzounas attempted to place one of the suspects under arrest, he was repeatedly kicked and punched, and he went into cardiac arrest.

Two suspects, ages 19 and 17, were charged with first-degree murder. When Officer Gatzounas' autopsy revealed he died of cardiac arrest instead of injuries from the beating, the charges were reduced to manslaughter.

Officer Gatzounas was a United States Army Vietnam veteran and served with the Holyoke Police Department for 18 months. He was survived by his wife and child.

Bio

  • Age 29
  • Tour 1 year, 6 months
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Assault
  • Weapon Person
  • Offender Charged with manslaughter
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Officer Gatzounas, it has been 58 years since you were taken from us. New England law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices you, your family, and many others have made for us. Thank you for your military and 1 1/2 years of law enforcement service.

Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH

January 1, 2024

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