Patrolman Michael A. Browning, West Chicago Police Department, Illinois

Patrolman Michael A. Browning

West Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Monday, April 20, 1992

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Michael A. Browning

Patrolman Michael Browning was killed after responding to a burglary at an automobile dealership.

Patrolman Browning had just exited his patrol car and drew his weapon when a man began driving from the dealership's showroom with a stolen car, striking Patrolman Browning with the vehicle.

The 19-year-old suspect was apprehended after the murder and twice sentenced to death, but both sentences were overturned by the Illinois Supreme Court. On January 11, 2003, Governor George H. Ryan commuted the death sentences of all 167 Illinois death row inmates as one of his last acts in office, effectively barring Patrolman Browning's murderer from receiving a death sentence a third time. On August 24, 2006, the suspect was resentenced to life in prison. He died in prison March 3, 2015.

Patrolman Browning had served as an officer with the West Chicago Police Department for only five months. Prior to being sworn in as an officer he had served as a cadet for two years. He was survived by his fiancée and parents.

Bio

Age 23
Tour 5 months
Badge 21

Incident Details

Cause Vehicular assault
Weapon Automobile
Offender Died in prison

burglary

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Most Recent Reflection

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Thank you all for all the 'reflections' you have left. As I read through them here, in 2024, I realize that after all these years, they are still such a gift to our family!

Obvioulsy, our lives were forever changed April 20th of 1992. The anguish was grueling. However, I cannot overstate the incredible support seeing so many police departments represented on the days of Mike's viewing and funeral. Seeing each vehicle and each officer gave a supportive comfort that I cannot express. We saw you. We heard you. We needed you and you were there. Thank you.

Thank you to all who have served and who are serving so faithfully each day to protect your neighborhoods. Mike was proud to be a part of this herioic and sacrificial community and we are so proud of him.

Bonnie Peterson (Browning)
Sister

September 17, 2024