John Charles Samra served in the U.S. Air Force for 5 years and 11 months. John served during the years of the Cold War.
Vehicle pursuit
Officer John Samra was killed when his motorcycle was struck by the driver of a minivan attempting to flee.
Officer Samra was on patrol when he stopped the suspect's vehicle at approximately 1000 hours. The driver of the vehicle, who had recently been released from prison on parole, fled in the vehicle. Officer Samra got back on his motorcycle and pursued the suspect. Officer Samra went to the corner of Maple Place and Washington Avenue, where he was struck by the vehicle.
The suspect then fled on foot but was apprehended by two civilians who witnessed the incident. He was then taken into custody by responding officers and charged with vehicular homicide, leaving the scene of a fatal accident, aggravated assault, eluding police, and causing a fatal accident. His driver's license was later determined to have been revoked.
Officer Samra was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital in Paterson, New Jersey, where he died from his injuries.
On June 27, 2005, the suspect was convicted of 11 counts in connection with Officer Samra's death, including vehicular homicide and aggravated manslaughter. On August 26, 2005, the suspect was sentenced to life plus 20 years and won't be eligible for parole for 63 years.
Officer Samra was a United States Air Force veteran and had served with the Clifton Police Department for 15 years.
Officer Samra is the first Clifton Police Officer to be killed in the line of duty since the agency was created in 1920.
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In tribute
I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.
Police Officer Samra gave the Clifton Police Department 15 years.
Thank you for your service to the Clifton community. Thank you for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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