Lower Burrell Police Department, Pennsylvania
End of Watch Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Add to My HeroesDerek Kotecki
Patrolman Derek Kotecki was shot and killed while investigating reports of a wanted man at a local fast food restaurant. The man was wanted for a shooting ten days earlier and for threatening police officers during the previous week.
The subject was hiding by laying in the back seat of his SUV. As Patrolman Kotecki and his canine, Odin, approached, the man suddenly sat up opened fire from a distance of about 10 feet. Patrolman Kotecki was struck in the head, abdomen, and left arm.
The man then fled, but was confronted by other officers as he attempted to climb a fence behind the restaurant. He was killed during an exchange of shots with the responding officers.
K9 Odin was uninjured but had to be muzzled after refusing to leave Patrolman Kotecki's side.
Patrolman Kotecki had served with the Lower Burrell Police Department for 18 years. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Bio
- Age 40
- Tour 18 years
- Badge 27
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender Shot and killed
Most Recent Reflection
View all 312 ReflectionsI had the pleasure of knowing derek! You are a true hero in my eyes. I promise to watch over your family and to let everyone know what a true, honorable, loving person you are! We love you man, and we will take it from here!
Deputy C. W.
Alexander County, NC
January 13, 2019
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