JOSEPH M AIRHART JR

Order a Wreath

Rank: Detective
Panel: 44-E: 26
Department: Chicago, Illinois, P.D.
End of Watch: November 4, 2008
Cause: Gunfire
Age: 53
Years of Service: 26

Description: Detective Airhart was shot while attempting to arrest a robbery suspect during a FBI raid. Detective Airhart posed as a delivery man to gain access to the suspect's apartment, but the suspect grew suspicious and opened fire on Detective Airhart. The suspect held Detective Airhart hostage for two hours before he turned himself in. Detective Airhart suffered severe brain damage, was in a coma for two months, and was ultimately unable to walk, eat, or breathe without assistance. The suspect was sentenced to life in prison plus 132 years for shooting Detective Airhart.