Police Officer Thomas J. Mathews

Police Officer Thomas J. Mathews

Abington Township Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Wednesday, June 29, 1949

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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 36 Reflections

Dad,
When I awoke this morning my first thought was of you. Not a day goes by that I don't think about you. Your family also remembers the sacrifice that you made. You are always with us. I will light a candle for you at our chapel today.

Michael, Donna and the Mathews Family

Michael P Mathews
Son

June 29, 2023

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