Lieutenant John J. Cummings, Schenectady Police Department, New York

Lieutenant John J. Cummings

Schenectady Police Department, New York

End of Watch Monday, May 18, 1953

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John J. Cummings

Lieutenant John Cummings suffered a fatal heart attack during a vehicle pursuit of a stolen vehicle.

Around 5:00 a.m., Lieutenant Cummings and his partner attempted to pull over a car missing a license plate. When the vehicle did not stop, Lieutenant Cummings coordinated the pursuit with responding officers. During the chase, Lieutenant Cummings collapsed against his partner, who was driving the patrol car. His partner left the pursuit and transported Lieutenant Cummings to St. Clare's Hospital, where he was unable to be resuscitated.

The driver of the stolen car was apprehended and charged with larceny and burglary.

Lieutenant Cummings had served with the Schenectady Police Department for 28 years. He was survived by his wife, son, daughter, two brothers, and a niece.

Bio

Age 50
Tour 28 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Heart attack

stolen vehicle, vehicle pursuit

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Most Recent Reflection

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Lt. Cummings,
On today, the 72nd anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Schenectady. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

May 18, 2025