Cleveland Police Department, Ohio
End of Watch Sunday, March 31, 1940
Otto J. Ziska
Patrolman Ziska died of an illness he contracted after rescuing several people from a building fire 16 years earlier. Patrolman Ziska repeatedly entered a burning building to rescue trapped civilians. As a result, Officer Ziska inhaled large quantities of poisonous gasses that were emitting from the burning building. Officer Ziska was in continuous ill health after that incident but continued to work. Officer Ziska succumbed to heart disease he contracted as a result of exposure to the harmful fumes.
Officer Ziska had served with the Cleveland Police Department for 22 years, and is survived by his wife and four children.
Bio
- Age 56
- Tour 22 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Duty related illness
- Incident Date Monday, May 12, 1924
Most Recent Reflection
View all 10 ReflectionsNEVER FORGET! On behalf of the Westerville, Ohio Division of Police, we honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Patrolman Otto J. Ziska of the Cleveland Police Department, Ohio and the additional 63 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.
Chief Joe Morbitzer
Westerville, Ohio Division of Police
March 31, 2018
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