Private John J. Broski, Pennsylvania Motor Police, Pennsylvania

Private John J. Broski

Pennsylvania Motor Police, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Saturday, August 14, 1937

John J. Broski

Private John Broski was shot and killed while interviewing a witness in a murder case he was investigating. He was performing the interview in a restaurant near Wilkes-Barre. While inside two armed men entered and attempted to rob the place. As Private Broski complied with their orders to raise his hands he was shot in the back with a sawed-off shotgun. He succumbed to his wound the following day.

The two suspects were captured in Philadelphia ten days later. They were convicted of Private Broski's murder and sentenced to life in prison on October 5, 1937. One of the suspects escaped from Eastern Penitentiary on October 27, 1943. Eleven days later he was shot and killed by state troopers in Chester, Pennsylvania.

Private Broski had been with the agency for almost 20 years. He was survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

Age 40
Tour 19 years, 7 months
Badge 1385

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Friday, August 13, 1937
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Sentenced to life

Most Recent Reflection

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To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 76th anniversary year of your death. I am priviliged to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

February 21, 2013