Sergeant Michael R. Palese, Chicago Police Department, Illinois

Sergeant Michael R. Palese

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Tuesday, March 22, 1977

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Michael R. Palese

Sergeant Michael Palese was struck and killed by a train while conducting a search for a 6-year-old girl who had not come home the night before.

He was searching railroad tracks near the girl's home during a period of heavy and blowing snow. He was struck by a Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad passenger train on the Roscoe Street trestle, near Kilbourn Park, as he and another officer walked across it at about 12:30 am.

The girl was located at her school the following morning after staying a friend's home that night.

Sergeant Palese had served with the Chicago Police Department for 20 years. He was survived by his son and mother.

Bio

Age 45
Tour 20 years
Badge 1514

Incident Details

Cause Struck by train

search and rescue

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Most Recent Reflection

View all 28 Reflections

I'll never forget the morning of March 22, 1977. My radio alarm went off as it did every school day but this time it was not to music, it was to the news that Sgt. Michael Palese had been killed. I couldn't believe what I heard, my 2 year old sister's father was killed while on duty.

Someone very special to the family actually works at 17, I find that such an honor. I know you're their guardian angel! I recently found out a good friend of mine's dad actually worked with you too!

You will always be in my heart and we all looked up to! You were a superior officer and leader! You are my fallen hero and are sorely missed. I love you!

Sunflower

August 3, 2014