Police Officer John William Bechtol, Delhi Township Police Department, Ohio

Police Officer John William Bechtol

Delhi Township Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Wednesday, October 25, 1978

John William Bechtol

Officer Bechtol was killed in an automobile accident while responding to an emergency call involving a mental subject when his patrol car was struck by another vehicle at the intersection of Delhi Pike and Pedretti Avenue. The driver of the vehicle that struck him was convicted of vehicular homicide and sentenced to 6 months in jail and 3 years probation.

Officer Bechtol had served with the Delhi Township Police Department for only 2 months. He was survived by his wife, 4-year-old stepson, and parents.

Bio

Age 23
Tour 2 months
Badge 17

Incident Details

Cause Automobile crash

Most Recent Reflection

View all 8 Reflections

NEVER FORGET! On behalf of the Westerville, Ohio Division of Police, we honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Police Officer John William Bechtol Delhi Township Police Department, Ohio and the additional 73 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.

Chief Joe Morbitzer
Westerville, Ohio Division of Police

October 26, 2017