South Centre Township Police Department, Pennsylvania
End of Watch Tuesday, June 16, 1992
Add to My HeroesDerle Edward Shoemaker
Chief Derle Shoemaker died after being in a coma for 17 days. He was accidentally struck in the head which caused him to fall from a second story balcony while conducting a warrant search training exercise.
Chief Shoemaker had served with the agency for 33 years. He is survived by his wife, daughter and son.
Bio
- Age 54
- Tour 33 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Training accident
- Incident Date Saturday, May 30, 1992
Most Recent Reflection
View all 11 ReflectionsGod of Justice, I am grateful for the lives and sacrifices of all America’s Peace Officers. They died serving us. Help us never forget. Help us celebrate their lives and honor their sacrifices. Be with the families of these fallen peace officers. Comfort them and give them Your strength and peace. Guide us as we seek to take care of the families of these fallen heroes. May we care for them with integrity. In commemorating the deaths of these fallen heroes, help us also to remember that death is not the end. Death does not have the final say, but is simply the transition from this earthly life to the heavenly life yet to come. This assurance was guaranteed to all believers upon the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. We look forward to that life to come with joy and anticipation. Thank You, Lord God, for hearing this prayer. In the mighty and holy name of Christ Jesus, Your dear Son, I pray. Amen.
Holy Scripture References:
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” [Psalm 23:4 ESV]
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” [John 3:16 ESV]
Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, NACM
Ordained NACM Minister
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers - USA
Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)
June 16, 2025
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