New York City Police Department, New York
End of Watch Monday, July 30, 1945
Add to My HeroesHoward H. Hegerich
Patrolman Howard Hegerich was shot and killed after confronting two men who were about to rob a store in the 200 block of 88th Avenue.
Patrolman Hegerich had completed a four to midnight tour and on his way home when he observed four men peering into a restaurant window in the Creedmore section of Queens.
As Patrolman Hegerich approached the men, all four men, each with two .38 caliber revolvers, turned and opened fire, striking Patrolman Hegerich five times. Patrolman Hegerich was able to return fire. All four suspects, 26, 23, 22, and 22 were arrested two weeks later and charged with murder. It was discovered Patrolman Hegerich's return fire did slightly injure one. They were linked to 26 local store hold-ups, several burglaries, and another shooting , all committed during the past three weeks. The other shooting was the owner of a liquor store they shot twice in his groin when he resisted as they robbed his store. Their crime spree started on July 15 when they broke into and stole 18 .38 caliber revolvers from the Queens Headquarters of the City Patrol Corps at the William Bryant High School. Police received a tip that led them to all four suspects, two who were ex-convicts. All four were arrested, later convicted of second degree murder and each sentenced to 25 years to life in prison.
Patrolman Hegerich was posthumously awarded the New York City Police Department's Medal of Honor for his actions.
Patrolman Hegerich was assigned to the 28th Precinct.
Bio
- Age 24
- Tour Not available
- Badge 19731
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun; .38 caliber
- Offender Sentenced to 25 years
Most Recent Reflection
View all 12 ReflectionsRest In Peace , hero ! I pray that the people responsible never left prison . Hope your family thrived and always mention you
Ret. Po ohara
Nypd mounted
July 30, 2021
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