Patrolman Thomas Kelma, Chicago Police Department, Illinois

Patrolman Thomas Kelma

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Friday, May 31, 1935

Thomas Kelma

Officer Thomas Kelma was shot and mortally wounded while attempting to arrest four armed robbers. Officer Kelma observed four armed robbers enter a lounge. As Officer Kelma intervened, a struggle ensued. The gunmen fired at the officer and fled. Officer Kelma succumbed to his wounds.

All four suspects were arrested and charged with Officer Kelma's murder. On July 26, 1935, one of the suspects was sentenced to life in prison; another one got 14 years; and one suspect hanged himself in his jail cell just before he was to be sentenced.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour Not available
Badge 427

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Apprehended

Most Recent Reflection

View all 7 Reflections

Time may have passed but you are not forgotten. I believe as long as someone remembers you or speaks your name, you are still with us.
Thank you for your heroism.
GOD Bless

Detention Officer A.Zambito
Texas

May 31, 2015