Lieutenant Henry O. Schmiemann, New York City Police Department, New York

Lieutenant Henry O. Schmiemann

New York City Police Department, New York

End of Watch Thursday, June 20, 1974

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Henry O. Schmiemann

Lieutenant Henry Schmiemann was shot and killed on 74th Street, south of Penelope Avenue in Queens when a man attempted to rob him as he walked to work.

Lieutenant Schmiemann was leaving his house on his way to work when an armed man approached him and ordered Lieutenant Schmiemann to turn over this money. Lieutenant Schmiemann drew his weapon and identified himself as an officer. The suspect shot Lieutenant Schmiemann and fled. Lieutenant Schmiemann was able to return fire and wounded the suspect. The suspect was arrested later in the day when he sought medical attention for his wound.

The suspect was charged with and later convicted of murder and sentenced to 25 years to life in prison.

Lieutenant Schmiemann was a United States Army Korean War veteran and had served with the New York City Police Department for 21 years, assigned to the Inspections Services. He was survived by his wife and five children. His grandson joined the NYPD and was given his shield number.

In 2024, the intersection of Penelope Avenue and 82nd Place was co-named Lieutenant Henry O. Schmiemann Way.

Bio

Age 46
Tour 21 years
Badge 1026

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to 25 years to life

robbery, off duty

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God of Justice, I am grateful for the lives and sacrifices of all America’s Peace Officers. They died serving us. Help us never forget. Help us celebrate their lives and honor their sacrifices. Be with the families of these fallen peace officers. Comfort them and give them Your strength and peace. Guide us as we seek to take care of the families of these fallen heroes. May we care for them with integrity. In commemorating the deaths of these fallen heroes, help us also to remember that death is not the end. Death does not have the final say, but is simply the transition from this earthly life to the heavenly life yet to come. This assurance was guaranteed to all believers upon the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. We look forward to that life to come with joy and anticipation. Thank You, Lord God, for hearing this prayer. In the mighty and holy name of Christ Jesus, Your dear Son, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scripture References:

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” [Psalm 23:4 ESV]

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” [John 3:16 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, NACM
Ordained Independent NACM Minister
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers - USA

Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)

June 20, 2025