Francis Smolka
1978
Francis Smolka. Francis also served in the U.S. Army. Francis served in the Vietnam War and the Cold War.
How He Died
Manner
Natural
Cause
Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
What Happened
Patrolman Francis Smolka suffered a fatal heart attack shortly after arresting a suspect who had resisted arrest. Patrolman Smolka, along with two fellow officers, answered a disturbance call that involved a physical altercation with a male who resisted arrest. Upon returning to the station, Patrolman Smolka collapsed. Three officers performed CPR at the station and while en route to Lorain Community Hospital. Despite attempts by hospital staff, he was pronounced dead at 2:15 a.m. Patrolman Smolka was a United States Army veteran and served with the Vermilion Police Department for two years.
Survivors
He was survived by his wife, two brothers, and sister.
Service Record
1972 – 1975
U.S. Army
Conflicts
Vietnam War
Cold War
Also Served
Vermilion Police Department
Patrolman
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtprjrsf7qhmmhn473f3b
Record added
August 2, 2026
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Last updated
August 2, 2026
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