U.S. Army · United States 
James Gatzounas
1977
James Gatzounas served the U.S. Army for 2 years. James served in the Vietnam War and the Cold War.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
What Happened
Patrol Officer James Gatzounas died after being assaulted as he and other officers responded to a fight at a New Year's Eve street party.
As Officer Gatzounas attempted to place one of the suspects under arrest, he was repeatedly kicked and punched, and he went into cardiac arrest. Another officer suffered head injuries.
Two suspects, ages 19 and 17, were charged with first-degree murder. When Officer Gatzounas' autopsy revealed he died of cardiac arrest instead of injuries from the beating, the charges were reduced to manslaughter.
As Officer Gatzounas attempted to place one of the suspects under arrest, he was repeatedly kicked and punched, and he went into cardiac arrest. Another officer suffered head injuries.
Two suspects, ages 19 and 17, were charged with first-degree murder. When Officer Gatzounas' autopsy revealed he died of cardiac arrest instead of injuries from the beating, the charges were reduced to manslaughter.
Service Record
U.S. Army
1968 – 1970
Conflicts
Vietnam War
Cold War
Also Served
Holyoke Police Department
Patrol Officer
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
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Record added
August 2, 2026
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Last updated
August 2, 2026
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