Police Officer John "Jack" Jantzen

Police Officer John
Suffolk County Police Department, New York
Police Officer John "Jack" Jantzen

Suffolk County Police Department, New York

End of Watch Sunday, April 21, 1991

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John "Jack" Jantzen

Police Officer Jack Jantzen was shot and killed when walking in on a dispute with a gun in progress while off-duty at 5:15 am

Officer Jantzen entered a restaurant at the corner of Middle Country Road and Stony Brook Road where a man was holding his wife and a restaurant employee at gunpoint with a 12-gauge shotgun. When Officer Jantzen attempted to intervene, he was shot and killed. The suspect then shot and killed his wife and the restaurant employee. The suspect fled the scene. Officer Jantzen's brother, also a Suffolk County Police Officer, was the first to arrive on the scene and find his brother.

The suspect was later apprehended and charged with murder. He was convicted of three counts of second-degree murder and sentenced to 75 years to life. He will be eligible for parole in 2066.

Officer Jantzen had been a member of the Suffolk County Police Department for 6 years. He is survived by his wife, son, mother, and brother.

Bio

  • Age 32
  • Tour 6 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Shotgun; 12 gauge
  • Offender Sentenced to 75 years to life

domestic, off duty

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I was in the 3rd grade and I remember vividly Officer Jantzen coming into our class to talk about the D.A.R.E program. First experience I ever had with an officer and unfortunately my first time dealing with the death of somebody I knew. I went to Sawmill in Commack NY and I remember the six trees the school planted for him out front during a giant memorial ceremony that the whole school showed up for. Those trees have done a lot of growing in the last 20 plus years. Everytime I pass them I think of him. His family should take great pride for the impact he made on this earth during his short time he was unfortunately given. I know he will forever remain in my memories and I am sure that rings true with anyone who had the privilege of meeting him. Continue to Rest In Peace Officer Jantzen

Chris Minton
D.A.R.E Graduate

August 11, 2023

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