Corporal John E. Ruch, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio

Corporal John E. Ruch

Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio

End of Watch Wednesday, March 4, 1942

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John E. Ruch

Corporal John Ruch was killed in an automobile accident during a high-speed pursuit on US Route 20 in Ashtabula County. He and another patrolman were en route to a defense meeting when they attempted to stop a speeding vehicle. Their patrol car went out of control on ice and snow and struck two trees.

Corporal Ruch had served with the agency for 8 years and was stationed in Geneva at the time. He was survived by his wife and parents.

Bio

Age 32
Tour 8 years
Badge 28/134

Incident Details

Cause Vehicle pursuit
Weapon Not available
Offender Not available

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NEVER FORGET! Honoring the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Patrolman Jacob Heffelfinger of the Ashtabula Police Department, Ohio, and the additional 71 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.

Superintendent Joe Morbitzer (Retired)
Ohio Attorneys General, Bureau of Criminal Investigation

March 4, 2025