Police Officer Jay F. Brunkella, Chicago Police Department, Illinois

Police Officer Jay F. Brunkella

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Saturday, October 4, 1986

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Jay F. Brunkella

Police Officer Jay Brunkella was shot and killed during a narcotics arrest near the Stephen F. Gale Elementary School at 1631 W. Jonquil Terrace.

Officer Brunkella and fellow narcotics officers were stationed at the grammar school in response to complaints about drug sales that occurred there. The officers observed a drug deal and they attempted to take one of the suspects into custody. One of the officers caught the suspect and fell to the ground during the ensuing struggle. The officer's service weapon discharged when they fell to the ground and the round struck Officer Brunkella.

He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.

The man was convicted of murder and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Officer Brunkella had served with the Chicago Police Department for 18 years. He was survived by his wife, daughter, mother, and brother.

Bio

Age 39
Tour 18 years
Badge 3429

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to 20 years

narcotics, foot pursuit

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Most Recent Reflection

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Jay worked for me on an undercover civilian dress tactical team, while assigned to the city wide, CTA mass transit system. We later teamed up together when the new Rogers Park, 24 th district open. At the time I was his supervising sergeant. Jay was my best officer under my command. I will never forget the day my good friend was killed.
Greg Sweeney, retired CPD Lt.

Lieutenant Greg Sweeney,
Chicago Police Department

September 25, 2025