Police Officer Thomas J. Mathews

Police Officer Thomas J. Mathews

Abington Township Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Wednesday, June 29, 1949

Add to My Heroes

Thomas J. Mathews

Police Officer Thomas Mathews was shot and killed while investigating a suspicious truck near Rydal he and his partner had seen leaving a large estate of a prominent citizen.

The driver of the truck fled with Officer Mathews in pursuit. His partner heard several gunshots moments later. Officer Mathews' body was located near a hedge approximately one hour later.

Investigation revealed that the subject had just committed a burglary at the estate. The man was apprehended in Lynchburg, Virginia, returned to Pennsylvania, and sentenced to death. He was subsequently executed on May 18, 1953.

Officer Mathews was a U.S. Army veteran of WWII and had served with the Abington Township Police Department for four years. He was survived by his wife and son.

Bio

  • Age 32
  • Tour 4 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Executed in 1953

burglary

Most Recent Reflection

View all 37 Reflections

Dad,
Yet another year has passed, your family still mourns your loss after 73 years. Rest in peace dad.

Michael, Donna and the entire Mathews Family

Michael P Mathews
Son

Michael Mathews, Son
Son

February 6, 2024

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.