Rockford Police Department, Illinois
End of Watch Wednesday, December 31, 1980
Add to My HeroesRandall A. Blank
Patrol Officer Randall Blank was shot and killed during a foot chase.
Officer Blank had responded to a local bar for a report of a purse snatching. When he arrived he engaged the suspect in a foot pursuit which resulted in a struggle. During the struggle the suspect was able to gain control of Officer Blank's service weapon and shot him in the head.
The suspect was apprehended a short time later by responding units.
Officer Blank had served with the Rockford Police Department for 10 months and had previously served with the Freeport Police Department for 1-½ years.
Bio
- Age 23
- Tour 2 years, 4 months
- Badge 236
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Officer's handgun
- Offender Died in prison
Most Recent Reflection
View all 34 ReflectionsRandy and I were 2nd cousins and were born 6 weeks apart. I still have a photo taken of us as newborns. His grandma lived right across the tracks from us and we played together when his family visited. I vividly remember when he was killed. His grandmother was heartbroken. Such an absolute waste. I have thought of Randy often throughout the years, especially when my oldest son was pursuing a criminal justice degree. It always makes me sad to think of his life ending at 23; yet I am proud of the officer and man that he was.
Fran Blank
Cousin
April 18, 2025
