Patrolman Phillip Droesch

Phillip Droesch

Patrolman Droesch was shot and killed following the robbery of a pawn shop. The suspect had exchanged shots with officers following the robbery but was able to escape. Patrolman Droesch was off duty, but had been called in to help search for the suspect. He observed a man near Jackson Street and High Street who appeared to be staggering. Thinking the man was intoxicated and injured, Patrolman Droesch approached him to give him assistance.

The suspect suddenly pulled out a gun and shot Patrolman Droesch. The officer was transported to Lima City Hospital where he died early the next morning.

The 27-year-old suspect was apprehended and convicted of murdering Patrolman Droesch. He was committed to the Lima State Hospital for the Criminally Insane. He escaped on September 4, 1928 and again on January 7, 1945.

Patrolman Droesch was survived by his wife and four children.