Springfield Police Department, Massachusetts
End of Watch Monday, October 31, 1955
Add to My HeroesLeo G. Hamel
Police Officer Leo Hamel was killed when he was crushed after he jumped onto the running board of a stolen tractor trailer truck that was operating recklessly on Union Street. He was attempting to get the driver to stop when he careened off the side of a parked dump truck killing Officer Hamel. Officer Hamel shot the driver five times before he was killed. The driver continued on Union Street at a speed estimated at 80 mph. He crashed into 14 cars before crashing into the Connecticut River at the end of the street. Police pulled the driver from the river after the truck sank. He was transported to a hospital in critical condition but recovered from the gunshots and other injuries.
The 35-year-old suspect was a former mental patient who had recently been released from a mental hospital after being treated for schizophrenia. He was adjudged insane and sent to the Bridgewater Mental Hospital for life. In less than a year he was released.
Officer Hamel had been with the agency for three years. He was survived by his wife, two daughters, parents, two brothers, three sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Bio
- Age 26
- Tour 3 years
- Badge 300
Incident Details
- Cause Vehicular assault
- Weapon Automobile
- Offender Committed
Most Recent Reflection
View all 14 ReflectionsOfficer Hamel, it has been 68 years since you were taken from us. New England law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices you, your family, and many others have made for us. Thank you for your law enforcement service
Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
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October 31, 2023
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