Chief of Police William J. Kerstetter

Chief of Police William J. Kerstetter

Sunbury Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Wednesday, February 12, 1913

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William J. Kerstetter

Chief of Police William Kerstetter succumbed to a gunshot wound sustained the previous day when he entered a home to take custody of a 21-year-old mental patient and take him to Harrisburg Hospital. The subject also shot and critically wounded his father.

The patient's father had requested the chief's help in taking his son back to the hospital. The suspect shot Chief Kerstetter three times in the head, neck, and shoulder. He was committed at Fairview Hospital for the criminally insane. He was still there in 1950.

Chief Kerstetter had served as chief for 3 years. He was survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

  • Age 46
  • Tour 3 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Tuesday, February 11, 1913
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Committed

Most Recent Reflection

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Thank you for your service and today we remind you and your family that your sacrifice is one that will never, ever be forgotten by your LE brethren. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

July 22, 2020

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