Police Officer Ronald Lee Trumbette, Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

Police Officer Ronald Lee Trumbette

Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Friday, May 23, 1975

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Ronald Lee Trumbette

Police Officer Ronald Trumbette was shot and killed while responding to a silent alarm in a warehouse at the New York Extract Company at 914 South Fifth Street in Philadelphia.

As he entered the building, the suspect, who was hiding in the rafters overhead, jumped down onto him. The suspect then gained control of Officer Trumbette's weapon and shot him. Another officer critically wounded the suspect as he shot him three times.

The 26-year-old suspect, with a long criminal record, mostly burglaries, was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death in August of 1976. His sentence was later commuted to life.

Officer Trumbette served with the Philadelphia Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife, son, and parents.

Bio

Age 25
Tour 5 years
Badge 4908

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to life

alarm

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Trumbette,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Philadelphia. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

May 23, 2025