Patrolman Thomas J. Schroth, Exeter Police Department, California

Patrolman Thomas J. Schroth

Exeter Police Department, California

End of Watch Wednesday, October 22, 1975

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Thomas J. Schroth

Patrolman Thomas Schroth was shot and killed while investigating an earlier domestic disturbance involving a firearm.

Patrolman Schroth had been dispatched to the Exeter Hospital at 215 Crespi Avenue to interview the female subject who had been shot in the leg. When he arrived at the hospital around 10:45 a.m., he was ambushed by the male subject in the parking lot, who opened fire with a shotgun.

The suspect then committed suicide after murdering Patrolman Schroth.

Patrolman Schroth was a United States Navy Vietnam War veteran and began his service with the Exeter Police Department as a reserve officer in 1973. He became a full-time officer two months before he was killed. He was survived by his wife and 8-month-old daughter.

Bio

Age 27
Tour 2 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun; 410 gauge
Offender Committed suicide

ambush, domestic

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Patrolman Schroth,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Navy. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Fair Winds And Following Seas

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

October 22, 2025