Roll of Honor
Incident
Patrolman Willis Cole was shot and killed after responding to a robbery in progress at a coin shop in the 200 block of Fourth Street. Patrolman arrived at the scene and was apprehending one of the suspects when another came around the building and opened fire on him. Patrolman Cole, who was not wearing his vest, was shot in the chest. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Both suspects fled but were captured within 45 minutes of the shooting. Both men were convicted, with one sentenced to life in prison and the other given a death sentence. Patrolman Cole had served with the New Cumberland Borough Police Department for 10 years.
Survivors
He is survived by his wife and son.
In Our Keeping
- Permanent identifier
BO-US-PA-A572FEA7- Stewardship
- Maintained by NeuraWeb Global Inc.
- Added to badge.nw
- April 2, 2026
- Last updated
- July 23, 2026
Honored here by 1 sentinel - 1 tribute - 1 candle.
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Tributes
I never knew you. I am standing here anyway.
Patrolman Cole gave the New Cumberland Borough Police Department 10 years.
Thank you for your service to the New Cumberland community. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, Patrolman Cole.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
Agency
Service Record
Incident Details
Patrolman Willis John Cole is one of 17,623 officers killed feloniously — deliberately targeted and murdered in the line of duty across the full record of this memorial — 54.2% of all 32,508 officers honored here.
In PA, 597 of 1,261 officers were killed feloniously — deliberately targeted and murdered in the line of duty — 47.3% of this state's fallen. That is 6.9 percentage points below the national rate of 54.2%.
At New Cumberland Borough Police Department, 2 of 2 officers on record were killed feloniously — deliberately targeted and murdered in the line of duty — 100% of this agency's fallen.
National Cause Distribution
How Felonious compares to all causes of officer death in the memorial record. Willis John Cole's cause is highlighted.
How Willis John Cole Compares
Offender Outcome
Sentenced to death
When Felonious Deaths Occur
Monthly distribution of Felonious deaths across the full memorial record. Willis John Cole is highlighted in Aug.
Weapons Used Against Officers
Most common weapons in felonious officer deaths. Willis John Cole was killed by handgun; .38 caliber.
Incident Location
Others Who Wore This Badge
1 officer from New Cumberland Borough Police Department are honored on badge.nw.
