Police Officer James R. Reifschneider

Police Officer James R. Reifschneider

St. Louis County Police Department, Missouri

End of Watch Saturday, April 30, 1977

Add to My Heroes

James R. Reifschneider

Police Officer James Reifschneider was struck and killed by a drunk driver while on I-270 one mile west of Lindbergh Boulevard.

He was standing by the driver's side door of a stalled vehicle talking with the driver when a 19-year-old youth struck him and dragged him 150 feet down the roadway. The suspect fled the scene but was found passed out in the back seat of his vehicle parked in front of his residence a short time later. It was later discovered he had crashed into a parked vehicle near his residence before he got home.

The man admitted he had been drinking a lot and did not remember the crash. He was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to six years in prison. Three months later a judge ruled his sentence was too harsh and reduced it to two years.

Officer Reifschneider had served with the St. Louis County Police Department for 16 years. He was survived by his wife, two sons, and daughter.

Bio

  • Age 37
  • Tour 16 years
  • Badge 430

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicular assault
  • Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
  • Offender Sentenced to 2 years

disabled motorist, Impaired Driver

Most Recent Reflection

View all 33 Reflections

Another year has passed. I still pray often for you and your family. I know you are very happy with your son Michael who has followed in your footsteps. R.I.P. brother and I hope to meet you again one day.

Ret. Officer Dave Gudermuth
St. Louis County P. D.

April 30, 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.