Officer Patrick Kent Hardesty

Officer Patrick Kent Hardesty

Tucson Police Department, Arizona

End of Watch Monday, May 26, 2003

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Patrick Kent Hardesty

Officer Patrick Hardesty was shot and killed while investigating a hit-and-run traffic accident at the intersection of Fort Lowell Road and Park Avenue.

Shortly after arriving at the scene, Officer Hardesty located a suspect, and a struggle ensued in which Officer Hardesty was shot five times and fatally wounded. Officer Hardesty was taken by ambulance to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Responding officers apprehended the suspect after a short foot pursuit. The suspect was found guilty of first-degree murder on February 25th, 2005, and was sentenced to death on March 10th, 2005.

Officer Hardesty was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and served with the Tucson Police Department as a reserve officer for 11 years and as a full-time officer for 19 months. He is survived by his wife, three children, parents, two sisters, and a brother.

Bio

  • Age 40
  • Tour 13 years
  • Badge 31432
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Sentenced to Death

accident scene

Most Recent Reflection

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“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”

It’s been 20 years and still I remember that day like it was yesterday. Over the years I’ve tried to stop focusing on the fear and anguish of that day and now I focus on remembering the courage on your face, the kindness and faith in your words and the bravery in your actions. You were on guard and ready to protect.
You were and forever will be our hero. I will never forget.

Anonymous
A part of that day

May 26, 2023

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