Police Officer Leo F. Hilenski, Detroit Police Department, Michigan

Police Officer Leo F. Hilenski

Detroit Police Department, Michigan

End of Watch Tuesday, January 16, 1945

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Leo F. Hilenski

Officer Hilenski was shot and killed while he and his partner attempted to deal with a mentally disturbed person at 5731 Trenton Street. As the two officers climbed the stairs the man appeared on the top and fired a shot from a single-shot shotgun, striking Officer Hilenski in the face.

As his partner dragged him to safety, the suspect reloaded. The man then shot Officer Hilenski a second time before being shot and wounded by the partner.

The suspect was committed to a state hospital, where he died in 1966.

Officer Hilenski had served with the agency for 17 years. He was survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 46
Tour 17 years
Badge 1923

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Committed

mentally ill

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Officer Hilenski,
On today, the 80th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Detroit. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

January 16, 2025