Fall River Police Department, Massachusetts
End of Watch Wednesday, August 24, 1994
Add to My HeroesThomas J. Giunta
Officer Thomas Giunta was shot and killed as he was distributing parking permits for a community function.
When he knocked on the door of the suspect's house, the suspect answered and a struggle ensued. The suspect wrestled Patrolman Giunta's weapon away from him and then shot him three times. He was subdued moments later by other officers on the scene. A citizen kept Patrolman Giunta alive long enough to get to the hospital by giving him CPR. Patrolman Giunta later died at the hospital.
The suspect was found competent to stand trial and was ultimately found guilty of first degree murder by extreme atrocity. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole on May 29th, 1998.
Patrolman Giunta was a U.S. Coast Guard veteran of the Vietnam War and had served with the Fall River Police Department for 21 years. He is survived by his wife, daughter, and two sons.
Bio
- Age 49
- Tour 21 years
- Badge 20
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 22 ReflectionsAugust 24th is upon us, a very sad day. I remember it clearly. I couldn't believe my friend was gone. We had just talked at the park, hugged and parted ways. In the blink of an eye you were murdered. I'm grateful for memories. You are never forgotten, you are missed. Hope you liked the flowers I placed st your grave on Memorial Day. R.I.P. my friend.
Geri Banville
Friend
August 21, 2018
Recent LODD Deaths
Deputy Sheriff Peter Herrera
El Paso County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: March 24, 2019
Police Officer Paul Rutherford
Phoenix Police Department, AZ
EOW: March 21, 2019
Deputy Sheriff Ryan Thompson
Kittitas County Sheriff's Office, WA
EOW: March 19, 2019
Corporal Daniel H. Groves
Colorado State Patrol, CO
EOW: March 13, 2019
Deputy Sheriff Jacob Howard Keltner
McHenry County Sheriff's Office, IL
EOW: March 7, 2019
Police Officer Nathan Hayden Heidelberg
Midland Police Department, TX
EOW: March 5, 2019
Sergeant Steve Hinkle
Sullivan County Sheriff's Office, TN
EOW: February 26, 2019
Police Officer Nicholas Scott Galinger
Chattanooga Police Department, TN
EOW: February 24, 2019
Undersheriff Monty Thomas Johnson
Pawnee County Sheriff's Office, OK
EOW: February 21, 2019