Police Officer Leo F. Hilenski

Police Officer Leo F. Hilenski

Detroit Police Department, Michigan

End of Watch Tuesday, January 16, 1945

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Leo F. Hilenski

Officer Hilenski was shot and killed while he and his partner attempted to deal with a mentally disturbed person at 5731 Trenton Street. As the two officers climbed the stairs the man appeared on the top and fired a shot from a single-shot shotgun, striking Officer Hilenski in the face.

As his partner dragged him to safety, the suspect reloaded. The man then shot Officer Hilenski a second time before being shot and wounded by the partner.

The suspect was committed to a state hospital, where he died in 1966.

Officer Hilenski had served with the agency for 17 years. He was survived by his wife.

Bio

  • Age 46
  • Tour 17 years
  • Badge 1923

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Shotgun
  • Offender Committed

mentally ill

Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Hilenski,
On today, the 76th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Detroit. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

January 16, 2021

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