Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania
End of Watch Wednesday, April 23, 1947
Add to My HeroesSamuel Harrison Hewitt
Sergeant Samuel Hewitt and Officer James Quigley were shot and killed following a pursuit of a stolen vehicle. When the vehicle they were pursuing crashed at the intersection of Stenton Avenue and Sedgewick Street , the suspect fled on foot, then opened fire on Officers as they pursued him, Killing Sergeant Hewitt and Officer Quigley.
The suspect was convicted of both murders and sentenced to life in prison. He was released from prison in 1972 and, two years later, murdered his foster mother. He was sentenced to life in prison for that murder as well.
Sergeant Hewitt was a U.S Army veteran of WWII and had served with the Philadelphia Police Department for 20 years. He was survived by his wife, and three grown children.
Bio
- Age 46
- Tour 20 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Sentenced to life
Related LODD Deaths
Police Officer James J. Quigley
Philadelphia Police Department, PA
EOW: April 23, 1947
Most Recent Reflection
View all 10 ReflectionsI have lived in East Mount Airy for 30 years, and frequently take walks through the neighborhood. It is a safe and pleasant, with beautiful homes and good neighbors. Tonight I was walking on Sedgwick and came across two commemorative plaques in th sidewalk. I had never noticed them before. They marked the spot where Officers Hewitt and Quigley were killed in 1947, several years before I was born. I noted their names and looked up the circumstances on their deaths when I got home. Even 71 years later, it is appropriate to memorialize their heroism, bravery and sacrifice, and give thanks for their lives.
Brian Flaherty
None, just an appreciative citizen
August 13, 2018
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