Police Officer John Thomas Scanlon, Robbinsdale Police Department, Minnesota

Police Officer John Thomas Scanlon

Robbinsdale Police Department, Minnesota

End of Watch Thursday, February 14, 1985

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John Thomas Scanlon

Police Officer John Scanlon was shot and killed after he and another officer cleared the scene of a burglary call at the intersection of France Avenue North and Lakeland Avenue.

After clearing the scene, the second officer left, but Officer Scanlon remained in his patrol car doing paperwork. Although they did not locate a suspect on their initial search, the man returned to the scene, approached Officer Scanlon's vehicle, and opened fire from the driver's side.

The suspect, 43, was later convicted of Officer Scanlon's murder and sentenced to life in prison. He was denied parole in April 2012. He had another parole hearing in 2022. The outcome is unknown.

Officer Scanlon was a United States Vietnam War veteran and had served with the Robbinsdale Police Department for 11 years. He was survived by his wife and adopted son.

Bio

Age 35
Tour 11 years
Badge 3810
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to life

ambush, burglary

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Most Recent Reflection

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Was just walking the park and seeing your name, wanted to see what was up and how you died. I hope you are in heaven, sounds like you had a life of dedication to your country and your community. It's sad you know that such a coward took the life of someone who saved so many lives sadly lost their life after saving so many and serving so many. May you rest in peace and may the coward that took your life hopefully find Jesus or rot in hell.

Garrett Lampert
Civilian

June 28, 2023