Patrolman Jahn E. Schmidt, Butler Township Police Department, Ohio

Patrolman Jahn E. Schmidt

Butler Township Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Tuesday, October 12, 1976

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Jahn E. Schmidt

Patrolman Jahn Schmidt was struck and killed while conducting a roadblock on Miller Lane near Kristen Lane in Butler Township.

He and other deputies were attempting to stop a stolen vehicle driven by a 15-year-old juvenile when he was struck. Patrolman Schmidt was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The suspect was apprehended and charged with murder and traffic violations. On October 28, 1979, the suspect, with a serious drug problem, jumped to his death from a water tower in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Patrolman Schmidt was a United States Navy Vietnam War veteran and served with the Butler Township Police Department for over one year. He was survived by his wife, parents, and brother.

He is buried in Mound Hill Union Cemetery, Eaton, Preble County, Ohio.

Bio

Age 27
Tour 1 year
Badge 20
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Vehicular assault
Weapon Automobile
Offender Charged with murder

juvenile offender, roadblock

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NEVER FORGET! Honoring the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice Patrolman Jahn E. Schmidt of the Butler Township Police Department, Ohio and additional 88 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this in history.

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

October 12, 2025