Patrolman Ivan Belka, Washington State Patrol, Washington

Patrolman Ivan Belka

Washington State Patrol, Washington

End of Watch Saturday, August 18, 1951

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Ivan Belka

Patrolman Ivan Belka was killed when his patrol car was struck by a car that made a left turn on Division Street in front of him as he was returning to the Spokane Station at 8 am. Patrolman Belka was transported to the Deaconess Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries at 2:45 pm.

The 25-year-old driver was charged with negligent homicide and reckless driving. A jury acquitted him.

Patrolman Belka had served with the Washington State Patrol for over nine years and previously served with the Port Angeles Police Department and Pierce County Sheriff's Office. He was survived by his wife, child, four brothers, and sister.

Bio

Age 38
Tour 9 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Automobile crash

Impaired Driver

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Most Recent Reflection

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Grandfather, though I never had the privilege of meeting you my father told me many stories of you. He especially enjoyed fishing with you in Mill Creek which ran through the property outside of Colville, WA. He told me he was upset that you didn’t wake him that fateful morning to ride with you in your cruiser into Spokane as you had promised and he waited all day for you to return. Thank you for your service and sacrifice and to all others who have served, sacrificed, and honored those who gave all. Special thanks to all who have left their sincere comments.

Avery Belka, Esq.
Grandson

May 15, 2023