Trooper Robert E. Coyle

Robert E. Coyle

Trooper Robert Coyle was shot and killed in Somerset County as he and another trooper escorted a payroll robbery suspect to the Pluckemin Substation for questioning.

Troopers Coyle and John Gregovesir were escorting an attempted payroll robbery suspect to the Pluckemin Substation for questioning. The two troopers sat in the front seat, leaving the suspect unattended in the back seat. While driving along the highway near Chimney Rock, adjacent to Bound Brook in Somerset County, the suspect suddenly shouted “Hands Up!” Trooper Coyle, who was riding in the passenger seat, turned and drew his service weapon. The suspect fired a blank directly into Coyle’s face. The suspect then wrestled Coyle’s revolver from him and fired two shots into Trooper Coyle’s back. Trooper Coyle died immediately. The suspect was able to disarm the other Trooper and escaped, sparking a massive manhunt. He was later apprehended, confessed to the crime and executed.

Trooper Coyle had served with the agency for 8 months and had previously served with the Pennsylvania State Police and the United States Army. He was survived by his wife.