Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania
End of Watch Sunday, February 29, 1976
Add to My HeroesJohn Stuart Trettin
Police Officer John Trettin was shot and fatally wounded by a bullet fired from the roof of a housing project at 25th and Jackson Streets as he and several officers investigated a report of shots being fired.
He died four days later from a gunshot wound to the head. A 15-year-old youth was arrested the next day and charged with murder.
The suspect, who told police, "I just wanted to kill a cop," was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life on September 21st, 1976. In September 2017, the subject was resentenced to 44 years to life in prison, making him eligible for parole, following a United States Supreme Court ruling prohibiting mandatory life sentences for juvenile offenders.
Officer Trettin was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War and had served with the Philadelphia Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife and three young children.
Bio
- Age 29
- Tour 5 years
- Badge 4623
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Incident Date Wednesday, February 25, 1976
- Weapon Rifle
- Offender Sentenced to 44 years
Most Recent Reflection
View all 41 ReflectionsI think of you often John. I still remember double dating when we went to SPHS - you, Carol, GeeGee and I. I remember seeing you at the swim club after you returned from Vietnam. You are greatly missed.
Dawn Cox Gambone
High school friend
June 28, 2024
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